A 22-year-old fugitive wanted for murder in India was apprehended by U.S. border guards while attempting to enter Canada. Vishat Kumar was caught on Sunday as he tried to cross the Peace Bridge from Buffalo, New York, into Ontario. Authorities say he was using a false name and date of birth to conceal his identity.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials reported that Kumar is the subject of an Interpol red notice issued by India, which seeks his arrest for murder. After being denied entry into Canada, Kumar's true identity was revealed during a secondary inspection that utilized biometric technology. This technology includes unique physical measurements such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans.

According to the CBP office in Buffalo, Kumar had previously entered the U.S. illegally last year and did not attend an asylum interview. Following his denial of entry to Canada, he was transferred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Kumar is currently being held in a federal facility in Batavia, New York, as he awaits removal proceedings to India.

An Interpol red notice serves as an alert from a member country regarding a fugitive wanted for serious crimes, including murder, rape, and armed robbery. However, it is not a warrant, and Interpol lacks enforcement powers. The decision to act on such notices is left to individual police organizations based on domestic law.

The United States and India have an extradition treaty, but an Interpol red notice is not a diplomatic request. Deporting a foreign national who is in the U.S. illegally does not require extradition proceedings in court. However, the extradition treaty stipulates that all requests for extradition must go through diplomatic channels.

The CBP did not provide information on whether Kumar has legal representation. Details regarding the murder charge he faces in India have not been disclosed.

Acting Area Port Director Sharon Swiatek commented on the situation, stating, "The apprehension of this individual demonstrates the critical role our officers play in safeguarding our nation and working collaboratively with international partners to uphold justice. This arrest highlights our commitment to ensuring that those who attempt to evade accountability for serious crimes are identified and brought to justice. I commend our officers for their vigilance and dedication to the mission."