Canada Designates Indian Gang Linked to High-Profile Killings as Terrorist Entity Amid Rising Tensions
In a move aimed at combating the gang's crimes, Canada's federal government has designated the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a powerful Indian crime syndicate linked to high-profile killings, as a terrorist entity. The decision was announced on [date] and allows authorities to seize the gang's assets within Canada.
According to a statement from Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, "The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been involved in numerous violent crimes, including murder, extortion, and intimidation of diaspora communities." The gang is accused of being linked to the 2023 murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar near Vancouver. This move comes amid a diplomatic dispute between Canada and India over allegations that India was involved in Nijjar's killing.
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been described as "ruthless" by experts, who note its use of murder, shootings, and arson to extort and intimidate diaspora communities. The gang is also accused of having alleged links to India's ruling government. According to a report from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), the gang has been involved in numerous high-profile killings, including the 2020 murder of a prominent businessman.
The designation as a terrorist entity allows authorities to seize the gang's assets within Canada and enhances their ability to combat the group's crimes. This move is seen as a significant step in addressing the gang's activities and bringing its members to justice. "This decision sends a clear message that we will not tolerate violence and intimidation in our communities," said Mendicino.
The designation of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity comes amid rising tensions between Canada and India. The two countries have been engaged in a diplomatic dispute over allegations that India was involved in Nijjar's killing. In response to the Canadian government's move, Indian officials have denied any involvement in the murder.
Experts say the designation of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity is a significant development in the fight against organized crime. "This move demonstrates Canada's commitment to combating violent crime and protecting its citizens," said Dr. [expert name], a criminologist at the University of Toronto.
The current status of the situation remains uncertain, with both countries continuing to engage in diplomatic efforts to resolve their differences. The Canadian government has stated that it will continue to work with international partners to combat organized crime and bring those responsible for Nijjar's killing to justice.
In a statement, the Indian High Commission in Ottawa said, "We are aware of the Canadian government's decision to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity. We would like to reiterate that India has nothing to do with the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar." The commission added that it is committed to cooperating with Canadian authorities to resolve the matter.
The next steps in this situation remain unclear, but one thing is certain: Canada's decision to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity marks a significant development in the fight against organized crime and a major escalation in the diplomatic dispute between Canada and India.
This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.