Archive · 23 Jul 2026
Indian-Origin Couple Convicted in UK PPE Fraud
An Indian-origin couple, Jogesh and Meenakashi Bhandari, along with their associate Craig Morris, were found guilty in the UK for fraud and money laundering.
They claimed to supply millions of boxes of nitrile gloves during the COVID-19 pandemic but used the money for personal luxury items like cars and watches.
They worked with Frank Labruzzo, who provided fraudulent escrow services.
The couple will be sentenced on 21 August.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed that they used forged documents and misused funds intended for PPE supplies.
Labruzzo has already been convicted in the US for his role in the scam.
An Indian-origin couple and their associate were convicted for fraud and money laundering involving PPE funds during the COVID-19 pandemic.
They claimed to supply millions of boxes of nitrile gloves but used the money for personal luxury items.
The couple worked with Frank Labruzzo, who provided fraudulent escrow services.
The NCA revealed that they used forged documents and misused funds intended for PPE supplies.
The couple will be sentenced on 21 August, and Labruzzo has already been convicted in the US.
- Who
- Jogesh Bhandari, Meenakashi Bhandari, Craig Morris, Frank Labruzzo
- What
- Fraud and money laundering involving PPE funds during the COVID-19 pandemic
- When
- 2020-2021 (fraudulent deals), 21 August (sentencing)
- Where
- United Kingdom
- Why
- To exploit the increased demand for PPE and fund a luxury lifestyle
Prosecution
Defense
Fraudulent Activities
Prosecution
The prosecution presented evidence showing that the Bhandaris and Morris engaged in fraudulent activities, including providing forged documents and misusing funds intended for PPE supplies.
Defense
The defense likely argued that the evidence was insufficient or that the actions were not intentional fraud.
Use of Funds
Prosecution
The prosecution demonstrated that the Bhandaris used the fraudulently obtained funds for personal luxury purchases, including cars, watches, and home improvements.
Defense
The defense may have argued that the expenditures were not directly linked to the fraudulent activities or were misrepresented.
- Defendants
- Jogesh Bhandari, Meenakashi Bhandari, Craig Morris
- Conviction Date
- 21 August (sentencing)
- Fraudulent Deals
- 2020-2021
- Total Fraud Amount
- $3.18 million (US hospitals) + $1.35 million (final deal)
- Luxury Purchases
- Rolexes, jewellery, cars (Porsche, Audi A5, Land Rover Discovery, VW Golf), holiday packages, home improvements
- Associate
- Frank Labruzzo (US Assistant Attorney General)