A California pizza establishment is at the center of a federal investigation, with a man accused of utilizing the restaurant not just for serving food but as a significant distribution point for methamphetamine. Kawal Preet Singh, a 50-year-old Indian national residing in the United States without legal authorization, was indicted last Thursday on federal drug and firearm offenses.
Authorities reportedly uncovered more than 40 pounds of methamphetamine, three firearms, and over $10,000 in cash during the course of their investigation. Federal prosecutors allege that Singh operated a Round Table Pizza restaurant in Dinuba, a city in Tulare County situated approximately 30 miles southeast of Fresno, and used the business to facilitate the distribution of substantial amounts of methamphetamine.
Singh entered a plea of not guilty during his arraignment. Reports indicate he is currently not in custody. The Dinuba restaurant is presently listed as permanently closed on Google.
A company spokesperson indicated that the individual implicated in the incident had been employed at the location for about a month and a half. Erin Mandzik, senior director of corporate communications for FAT Brands, the parent company of Round Table Pizza, clarified that the Dinuba establishment was independently owned and operated. Mandzik further stated that the local owners were reportedly unaware of the alleged illicit activities until they came to light and are fully cooperating with law enforcement.
Allegations at the Restaurant and Seizures
Federal agents conducted searches at Singh’s residence and the restaurant on August 18. These actions were part of a broader investigation into alleged Indian organized crime activities within California’s Central Valley, according to information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
Investigators reportedly discovered approximately 13.8 kilograms, or more than 30 pounds, of suspected methamphetamine at Singh’s home. An additional 4.9 kilograms, nearly 11 pounds, was allegedly found packaged in five clear plastic bags inside Singh’s Hyundai Sonata, which was parked at the restaurant location.
During the searches, agents also seized a semi-automatic handgun and $11,800 in cash. Photographs released by the Justice Department displayed two handguns reportedly confiscated during the investigation, one of which featured a distinctive teal-colored frame. Another image showed clear plastic bags containing a crystalline substance identified by authorities as methamphetamine.
The Broader Investigation and Charges
A federal grand jury has charged Singh with several offenses, including distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The investigation reportedly commenced in May following a tip regarding a suspected narcotics trafficker operating in Fresno and distributing controlled substances. Subsequently, investigators received intelligence about a trafficker known as