FBI offers $50k reward in mystery 2017 murder of Indian mother and son
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of up to USD 50,000 for information leading to the arrest of Indian national Nazeer Hameed, wanted for the 2017 murders of his wife and mother-in-law in New Jersey, an escalation that highlights how seriously US authorities are treating the case after years of limited progress.
Hameed has been charged with the murders of Mariya Hameed, 27, and her mother Nasreen Akhter, 52, who were found stabbed to death inside their Middlesex County residence in May 2017. Investigators identified Hameed as the primary suspect after determining that he had entered the home before the killings and left the United States shortly afterwards, flying to India within hours of the incident. A state warrant for his arrest was later issued that year.
Challenges in obtaining DNA samples from India
Despite early developments, the investigation stalled for several years due to difficulties faced by US authorities in obtaining Hameed’s DNA sample from India. Between 2020 and 2023, the US Department of Justice submitted multiple requests under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) asking Indian authorities to collect a DNA sample to support the extradition process.
According to New Jersey prosecutors, these requests “did not receive cooperation”, leaving investigators unable to complete required forensic comparisons. The absence of DNA evidence contributed to significant delays, as it prevented US officials from submitting a fully compliant extradition package under the terms of the India–US Extradition Treaty.
Reward indicates case is at a standstill
The FBI’s announcement of a USD 50,000 reward in 2025 signals both the urgency and the current stagnation of the case. US officials believe Hameed continues to reside somewhere in India, but without cooperation from Indian authorities, the suspect cannot be detained or produced before a court.
Law-enforcement officials said the size of the reward underscores how seriously the agency views the matter. For the FBI, the double murder case has become a prestigious, high-priority investigation, and the public appeal reflects renewed efforts to move the case forward after nearly eight years.
Steps required for extradition
US authorities say the next phase depends on coordinated action by both countries.
Under the bilateral extradition treaty, the US must submit a complete extradition dossier, including certified court documents, arrest warrants and all forensic evidence. This must be forwarded through the US State Department to India’s Ministry of External Affairs.
Once received, the Indian government must evaluate the material, locate the accused within its territory, and produce him before the appropriate court. A magistrate will examine whether the evidence meets India’s legal standards for extradition. Upon judicial certification, the final decision rests with the Government of India, which must formally approve the extradition.
Only after this process can US Marshals take custody of Hameed and return him to New Jersey to stand trial.
US urges swifter action
The reward announcement has been accompanied by renewed diplomatic engagement. US officials said the FBI continues to treat the matter as an active manhunt and is encouraging anyone in India with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to come forward.
The prolonged delays have become a point of concern for American authorities, who view cooperation under the MLAT and the extradition treaty as essential for concluding the case. Officials said the reward reflects the FBI’s determination to locate the accused and ensure he faces prosecution.
With the case now entering its eighth year, both governments are expected to intensify engagement in the coming months to resolve outstanding issues and move the extradition process forward.