Edmonton (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Minister for Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis have issued a strong joint statement calling on the federal government to formally designate the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist organization, citing its violent transnational criminal activities and growing threat to Canadian public safety.
“The Lawrence Bishnoi Gang is a transnational criminal network responsible for violence, extortion, drug trafficking and targeted killings, including here in Canada,” the statement read. “Its reach is global, and its intent is criminal and violent.”
Alberta joins British Columbia Premier David Eby and a growing number of provincial leaders in urging Prime Minister Mark Carney and the federal government to act decisively against the gang. Officials believe that formally listing the Bishnoi network as a terrorist entity under Canadian law would empower law enforcement with critical tools to freeze assets, pursue broader criminal charges, and coordinate international efforts to dismantle the group.
“We know that gang activity knows no boundaries and respects no borders,” said Smith. “Alberta wants to send a clear message: you are not welcome here.”
Minister Ellis emphasized that such a designation would unlock essential resources for municipal and provincial law enforcement, enabling them to more effectively disrupt gang operations and protect citizens. He also noted the significant impact of the Bishnoi network on South Asian communities, who have been disproportionately targeted.
“This threat is not abstract,” the statement continued. “It has real consequences for real people, especially in Alberta’s vibrant and diverse communities.”
The call for federal action follows a series of high-profile gang-related incidents across Canada, some of which are suspected to be linked to the Bishnoi network’s overseas operations. Canadian intelligence and law enforcement have been monitoring the group’s expanding influence, particularly within diaspora populations.
“The time for action is now,” the Alberta leaders concluded. “Alberta’s government is asking the federal government and Prime Minister Mark Carney to join them in taking a stand and act to protect Albertans and all Canadians.”
As of now, there has been no official response from Ottawa regarding Alberta’s request.
