Vancouver (Rajeev Sharma): British Columbia Premier David Eby is set to request that Prime Minister Mark Carney officially designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization in Canada, citing the group’s growing involvement in organized crime, extortion, and threats across multiple provinces.
Speaking at a press briefing, Eby said the gang’s escalating operations are no longer limited to isolated criminal acts but now represent a national security concern. “This gang poses a serious threat not only to B.C. but also to communities in Alberta and Ontario,” Eby said. “We must give our law enforcement agencies every tool they need to disrupt and dismantle their network.”
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, allegedly controlled by its namesake who is currently incarcerated in India, has been linked to several transnational crimes, including violent assaults, drug trafficking, and an extortion racket targeting members of Canada’s South Asian community. Several reports in recent months have indicated rising cases of threats against Indo-Canadian businesspeople and entertainers.
A terrorist designation under Canadian law would allow police and national security agencies to monitor and detain suspected operatives more effectively, seize assets, and prosecute those aiding or funding the group.
“This is about public safety,” said Eby. “Designating this gang as a terrorist entity will enable coordinated action across provinces and with international partners.”
Community leaders and legal experts have voiced support for the move, saying it reflects the evolving nature of organized crime in Canada. “These aren’t just local gangs anymore. They’re operating with international reach, exploiting gaps in enforcement,” said Toronto-based lawyer Rajdeep Malhotra.
The request comes amid increasing collaboration between Canadian and Indian law enforcement agencies in tackling transnational crime networks. Ottawa has not yet commented on Eby’s forthcoming appeal, but political observers believe the federal government may soon be forced to respond, given mounting public concern.
If approved, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang would join a list of designated terrorist entities under Canada’s Criminal Code—an unprecedented move for an India-based crime syndicate operating within the country.
