Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents in Los Angeles are scrutinizing Gaurav Srivastava, who faces serious charges including wire fraud, money laundering, and misrepresenting himself as a U.S. federal official and citizen, as reported by the Wall Street Journal (WSJ).
According to WSJ reporter Joe Wallace’s article “A Fake Spy, Russian Oil and $1 Million Funneled to Democrats,” Srivastava, an Indian businessman notorious for his “fake CIA agent” scheme, is under investigation for exploiting the U.S. system and posing a national security threat through fraudulent activities spanning several years.
The WSJ’s detailed investigation, based on legal documents, financial records, interviews, and recordings, reveals that Srivastava, a college dropout, manipulated his way into Washington’s political circles with lies and stolen funds.
Additionally, he met President Joe Biden and allegedly donated over $1 million to Democratic causes, all while pretending to be a covert CIA operative. This deception has led to his growing reputation as a national security risk.
The situation has sparked a political uproar as lawmakers probe how a green card holder from Lucknow, India, gained unvetted access to top Democratic circles. Srivastava, known as “Mr. G,” deceived numerous prominent figures including General Wesley Clark, the Atlantic Council, Democratic fundraising committees, several senators and congressmen, and international leaders. Many of these individuals distanced themselves from Srivastava following his exposure.
The scam was initially uncovered in October 2023 by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Bradley Hope. Srivastava has attempted to suppress coverage of his activities through deceptive legal actions and fraudulent claims under U.S. copyright law, including manipulating publication dates on hosting sites and filing fake complaints with Google.
Srivastava purportedly aimed to build a business exploiting connections between commodities, intelligence, and security, targeting developing nations and conflict zones. He posed as a CIA operative to gain influence and support for various leaders while presenting himself as a prominent American in Washington.
Despite his claims of CIA affiliation, Srivastava’s alleged fraudulent activities, including a $24.5 million villa purchase funded through deceit, have come under increasing scrutiny. The WSJ reports that Srivastava’s desperation led him to make outlandish claims about his CIA connections and fabricated interactions with prominent figures.
Following a breach of trust by Srivastava, his dealings with businessman Niels Troost fell apart. Troost canceled all agreements with Srivastava in May 2023 due to the deception. The scandal has led to lawsuits against Srivastava and his wife Sharon, including one from former landlord Stephen McPherson over an expired lease and unpaid rent.
Wallace’s WSJ article underscores how Srivastava’s story highlights the ease with which individuals with financial resources can manipulate influential figures in Washington. Troost, reflecting on the situation, feels burned but finds solace in knowing he was not alone in falling for Srivastava’s deception.
Despite the substantial allegations and evidence of criminal activity, Srivastava and his lawyers deny all charges against him.
