The Lawrence Bishnoi gang is demonstrating a concerning level of defiance in Canada, intensifying its violent operations just as India and Canada pledge greater cooperation against transnational criminal activities. Despite being formally listed as a terrorist organization by Ottawa, the gang’s network continues its insidious spread and instills fear in Canadian cities.
Recent events include the gang taking responsibility for two shootings within a single week. One attack led to the death of Darshan Singh Sahsi, a businessman of Indian heritage, outside his Abbotsford, British Columbia residence. Another incident saw the home of Punjabi singer Chani Nattan in Surrey targeted by gunmen, who subsequently posted video evidence of their actions online. A man claiming to be Goldy Dhillon, linked to the Bishnoi gang, alleged on social media that Sahsi was killed for not paying extortion fees related to drug trafficking.
The alleged architect of this criminal enterprise, Lawrence Bishnoi, continues to manage his extensive operations from within Sabarmati Jail in Ahmedabad. His influence now extends internationally, impacting Canada’s Punjabi community and its criminal landscape. The gang’s escalating boldness, evidenced by multiple targeted shootings, appears to be a calculated effort to assert control, maintain internal discipline, and intimidate opposition.
Specific incidents include three attacks on comedian Kapil Sharma’s Kap’s Café in Surrey since its opening, the latest on October 16th. Gunmen also fired upon Zamindar Bar & Grill in Brampton, Ontario, on the same day, with a gang associate claiming responsibility and issuing threats. The gang has also targeted properties of a Surrey restaurateur and a rival, Navi Tesi, in October, citing employee exploitation and extortion. These aggressive actions, following Canada’s terrorist designation, underscore the gang’s audacity and expanding influence.