An American citizen identified as Jordan Brown, a 36-year-old resident of California, is under investigation after being detained by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) while allegedly attempting to cross the India-Nepal border without valid travel documents.
The incident occurred near the Sonauli border in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district, prompting multiple central intelligence and security agencies to verify his identity, travel history and activities.
Who is Jordan Brown?
According to officials, Brown claims to be a US citizen from California.
During questioning, he told investigators that he had travelled to Thailand on a tourist visa, where he allegedly lost his passport. He further claimed that he later reached Sri Lanka by sea before entering India through a sea route in November 2025.
Authorities said each of these claims is being independently verified.
A senior police official said investigators are examining Brown’s identity, previous international travel, and the circumstances surrounding his arrival in India.
How was he detained?
Brown was detained during a routine patrol by the SSB in the Mainihwa area under the jurisdiction of Sonauli Police Station, near border pillar number 516.
According to officials, he had travelled from Bengaluru to the Sonauli border and allegedly attempted to enter Nepal without authorisation.
Police said Brown reportedly tried to flee after security personnel stopped him for verification but was subsequently apprehended.
No valid travel documents found
Maharajganj Additional Superintendent of Police Siddharth confirmed that Brown did not possess valid travel documents at the time of his detention.
A case has been registered at Sonauli Police Station under Sections 21 and 23 of the Immigration and Foreigners Act for allegedly entering India without valid documents.
What has the investigation found so far?
Officials said no evidence of suspicious or anti-national links has been established so far. However, the investigation remains ongoing.
During the search, security personnel recovered ₹31,460 in cash and two mobile phones, according to police.
Other reports stated that investigators also recovered a Chinese passport, Nepalese currency, religious books, an AI translation device, a diary, a wristwatch, and other personal belongings. Authorities are examining the recovered items as part of the investigation.
Agencies continue verification
Security and intelligence agencies are continuing to verify Brown’s statements and background while examining the seized materials.
Officials said further legal action will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
