Washington (Rajeev Sharma): In one of the biggest coordinated operations targeting organised crime with links to India, US federal authorities have announced sweeping action against an international criminal syndicate allegedly associated with gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his close associates. Investigators say the operation stretched across North America and Europe, resulting in multiple arrests, large-scale searches, and the seizure of narcotics and illegal firearms.
According to officials, law enforcement agencies carried out simultaneous raids at nearly 50 locations across the United States, Canada, and several European countries. Twenty-four suspects were taken into custody, while charges have been filed against a total of 37 individuals believed to be part of the network.
Authorities claim the investigation, which has been underway for several years, uncovered an organised structure allegedly involved in narcotics trafficking, extortion, targeted violence, money laundering, and illegal arms operations across multiple countries.
US names Lawrence Bishnoi and associates in federal case
For the first time, US investigators have formally named Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar, Rohit Godara, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and several alleged associates in connection with a criminal conspiracy that extends beyond India’s borders.
Federal prosecutors have alleged that the syndicate continued to function internationally despite Bishnoi being lodged in an Indian prison, with overseas operatives allegedly carrying out instructions through an established network spread across different countries.
Investigators also claimed the organisation maintained operational cells in North America and Europe to coordinate criminal activities, including extortion, targeted attacks and drug trafficking.
Massive seizure during coordinated raids
Officials said the enforcement operation led to the recovery of approximately 1,000 kilograms of narcotics along with dozens of illegal firearms, ammunition and other evidence believed to be linked to organised criminal operations.
Authorities described the seizures as a significant blow to the financial backbone of the alleged syndicate, adding that further forensic examination of the recovered material is continuing.
Several electronic devices, financial records and encrypted communication equipment were also reportedly seized during the searches.
Extradition process likely to follow
US authorities indicated that they intend to initiate formal extradition requests for Lawrence Bishnoi, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and another accused, Pundarpreet Singh, through diplomatic and legal channels.
Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of 50,000 US dollars for information leading to the arrest of Goldy Brar, who remains wanted in connection with multiple investigations.
Investigation spanned several years
Speaking about the operation, federal officials said investigators from multiple agencies worked together over an extended period to map the alleged criminal network operating across international borders.
Officials maintained that cooperation between agencies in the US, Canada and Europe was crucial in identifying the movement of suspects, tracking financial transactions and dismantling the group’s infrastructure.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have not ruled out additional arrests or fresh charges as more evidence is examined. They also emphasised that the case highlights the increasing international reach of organised crime networks and the need for coordinated cross-border enforcement efforts.
