As Canadian officials push for tougher laws, jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi is at the center of calls to label extortion gangs as terrorist groups.
Gangster’s Influence Reaches Far Beyond India
Lawrence Bishnoi is a name increasingly associated with violent transnational crime. Once known for his involvement in student politics, he is now an alleged kingpin of a powerful extortion and contract killing syndicate. Despite being incarcerated in Delhi’s Tihar Jail, Bishnoi’s criminal influence continues to grow—stretching across North India and reaching deep into countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Long List of Charges and Continued Operations
Bishnoi faces more than 60 serious criminal cases, including attempted murder, extortion, arms smuggling, and organized conspiracy. Law enforcement agencies claim that even from behind bars, he has managed to orchestrate violent crimes using mobile phones and a vast network of operatives. His name routinely surfaces in investigations across multiple Indian states.
International Crime Links Under Investigation
Canadian authorities have identified Bishnoi’s suspected connection to gangster Goldy Brar, who is believed to operate from Canada. Together, their gangs are alleged to run a global crime ring with characteristics similar to terror networks. The syndicate is linked to targeted shootings and extortion attempts against Indian-origin businessmen in cities across British Columbia and Ontario.
Blackbuck Case and Bollywood Threats
Bishnoi gained national and international media attention after threatening a famous Bollywood actor convicted in a wildlife poaching case. The incident sparked a personal vendetta, with multiple threats and violent incidents reportedly traced back to his gang. A shooting outside the actor’s residence in 2023 heightened public alarm and led to tighter security.
Mayor’s Statement Triggers Policy Debate
In light of ongoing violence and public safety threats, the Mayor of Surrey, British Columbia, recently called on the federal government to classify extortion gangs like Bishnoi’s as terrorist organizations. The statement reflects a growing urgency to counter criminal groups whose operations mimic the structure and brutality of extremist cells.
Growing Momentum for Global Crackdown
The push to label Lawrence Bishnoi’s network as a terrorist organization is gaining traction among policymakers and security agencies. As cross-border investigations intensify, authorities are reassessing how to combat crime syndicates that blend gang violence with transnational coordination—forcing a global rethink on where organized crime ends and terrorism begins.
