Canadian officials said Monday that pro-Khalistan gang members are the targets of an alleged conspiracy between Indian government operatives and organized crime groups like the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Both countries took the step of dismissing high-ranking ambassadors when events escalated following the killing of a Sikh separatist. In response, Ottawa has accused Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of trying to appease Canada’s large Sikh community, which Delhi has dismissed as politically motivated.
The claims made by the police revolve around an Indian criminal named Lawrence Bishnoi, who is 31 years old. Bombers opened fire outside the office of Baba Siddique, a prominent Mumbai politician, just outside his son’s residence, and authorities have linked the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to the killing. Bishnoi’s acquaintance publicly claimed responsibility for the murder online, and authorities have arrested three people. Despite serving time in prison since 2015, Bishnoi has considerable influence. The murder of Punjabi artist Sidhu Moose Wala in 2022 has him as the prime suspect. Bishnoi has a documented history of making violent threats, notably one in 2018 aimed at Bollywood star Salman Khan.
According to Indian police, Bishnoi’s gang operates across multiple states and includes over 700 members. According to reports, Bishnoi associate Goldy Brar leads the Canadian group, which engages in coercion, drug delivery, and murder. Coming from a wealthy family in Punjab, Bishnoi first became famous for his work in student politics in Chandigarh. He became aggressive and broke the law when he lost a student election.
The flourishing underground economy in Bishnoi’s native state of Punjab is fueling massive drug and weapon smuggling problems. People like Bishnoi, who crave fame and notoriety, thrive in this setting. Despite the increased crackdown on organized crime in Punjab and the resulting slew of arrests, Bishnoi continues to operate from behind bars. People wonder where he gets his influence and power since he can still control his gang while in prison.
