The U.S. Department of Justice has charged 37 members of transnational crime groups, including the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, following an FBI sting exposing murder-for-hire plots, extortion, and drug trafficking. The case ties Bishnoi to the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
FBI Infiltrates Lawrence Bishnoi Crime Syndicate
Undercover agents penetrated the Punjab-based Lawrence Bishnoi gang, recording threats and payment demands via encrypted apps like WhatsApp. Court filings show operatives coordinated violence while Bishnoi remained jailed in Gujarat, with cash exchanges monitored in California.
Global Arrests in India-Linked Crime Networks
Authorities targeted three syndicates: Bishnoi’s group, the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria faction, and a narcotics ring led by Ravinder Singh Dhanda. Arrests span the U.S., Canada, and Spain, with 10 fugitives still at large, including two in India.
- 37 defendants charged in total
- 24 arrested across three countries
- 10 fugitives remain, including 2 in India
- Allegations include racketeering and assassination plots
Diplomatic Fallout and Investigation Next Steps
The Nijjar case has strained India-Canada relations, with U.S. officials confirming Indian cooperation in the probe. Parallel investigations continue as authorities pursue extradition requests and additional arrests.
Readers should watch for further diplomatic responses and legal developments as the case unfolds.
