The FBI searched the home and office of former National Security Advisor John Bolton on Friday amidst investigation into his handling of classified documents. The early morning operation is believed to have been carried out on orders from FBI Director Kash Patel — the most significant public step taken by the Justice Department against a perceived enemy of the Donald Trump. Bolton had become an outspoken critic of the US President after being fired from the first Trump administration in 2019. He has also made headlines numerous times in recent weeks for lambasting the extensive tariffs imposed by Trump on India and other nations.

According to an AP report, Bolton was not detained or charged with any crimes. He was seen talking to individuals wearing ‘FBI’ jackets on the premises as agents took bags into his office building through a back entrance.

The searches of Bolton’s home and office come as the Trump administration has also moved to scrutinize other critics — including the authorisation of a jury investigation into the origins of the Trump-Russia probe. It is also likely to elicit fresh criticism that the Trump administration is using its law enforcement powers to target his foes.

Kash Patel shares cryptic message

The Justice Department has made no official comment on the situation while top Trump aides and other officials released a series of cryptic social media posts. FBI director Kash Patel insisted in a short update that “nobody was above the law” as the raids took place in Washington DC. He did not refer to Bolton or the case by name — only adding that FBI agents were “on mission”.

“America’s safety isn’t negotiable. Justice will be pursued. Always,” added Attorney General Pam Bondi while resharing his post.

John Bolton on India

The former NSA has taken repeated swipes at the Trump administration for imposing a 50% tariff against India — calling it a series of “unforced errors”. He had also deemed it a “mistake in the bilateral relationship” and a ‘backward’ decision during earlier comments. US President Donald Trump had imposed a 25% levy against Indian imports at the beginning of August and vowed to add an additional 25% later this month for continued purchase of Russian oil. He has repeatedly insisted that New Delhi was helping Moscow prolong its war in Ukraine by retaining trade ties.

“When Trump slapped tariffs on India for buying Russian oil, but not China which also purchases Russia oil, it may have pushed India further into the Beijing-Moscow axis. This lack of focus by the Trump Admin is an unforced error…India has reacted very strongly against Trump’s decision to impose tariffs for purchasing Russian oil and gas, potentially driving India closer to Russia, contrary to US national interests.  This unforced US error shows the Administration’s lack of strategic thinking and priorities,” Bolton wrote on X last week.

(With inputs from agencies)