FRIENDSWOOD — The Friendswood Police Department’s ongoing investigation into an organized gold scam targeting elderly victims has resulted in another arrest and the recovery of more than $750,000 in gold, silver and cash through multiple search warrants connected to the investigation.

At approximately 2:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, Friendswood Police Department investigators executed a Galveston County arrest warrant and a Fort Bend County search warrant at a residence in the 13900 block of Manobrook Court in Richmond.

Investigators arrested Suchit Patel and charged him with engaging in organized criminal activity and theft of less than $300,000, a first-degree felony, according to police.

Patel’s bond was set at $10 million. An immigration detainer has also been placed on him.

During the search, investigators recovered approximately $401,565.40 in gold, silver and cash.

Friendswood police said investigators have now recovered more than $750,000 in monetary assets through recent search warrants and are working to identify the victims associated with the recovered property.

The investigation was related to a Sept. 15, 2026 report, involving an elderly Friendswood resident who was deceived by a suspect posing as a federal agent.

According to police, the victim was convinced to provide $25,000 in gift cards and convert approximately $185,000 of her savings into gold bars. The gold was later turned over to a courier as part of the scheme.

Friendswood investigators identified the courier as Rajdeep Singh, 27, of California. On Sept. 16, Friendswood police, with assistance from the Meadows Place Police Department, located Singh in Fort Bend County and took him into custody.

Police said the investigation involving Singh ultimately led investigators to Patel.

“These criminals are stealing the life savings of elderly members of our community, and we are committed to finding everyone involved,” Friendswood Police Chief Josh Rogers said. “The quick work of our investigators and our partnership with the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office has allowed us to recover a significant amount of stolen property before it disappeared.”

Rogers said investigators still have work to do to identify the rightful owners of the recovered property and remain committed to the victims and to holding those responsible accountable.

The Friendswood Police Department believes Patel is connected to multiple victims in the Houston area. Anyone who recognizes Patel’s vehicle or has information about Patel is asked to contact the Friendswood Police Department at 281-996-3300.

Police said anyone who receives a similar call or believes they may have been victimized should immediately stop communicating with the caller and contact their local law enforcement agency.

The department also urged residents to speak with elderly family members, friends and neighbors about these schemes.

Friendswood police said legitimate law enforcement agencies, federal agencies and financial institutions will never instruct someone to purchase gold, cryptocurrency, gift cards or other assets to protect their money or avoid arrest.