Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Stepping up its offensive against organised crime, the Punjab administration has released a list of 28 absconding criminals and announced monetary rewards for information that could lead to their capture. The initiative is part of an ongoing campaign to dismantle gangster networks operating both within India and from foreign soil.
Officials described the listed individuals as key players in a wide web of illegal activities, including contract killings, extortion, and cross-border smuggling of narcotics and weapons. Rewards ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh have been declared, depending on each accused’s level of involvement and criminal history.
What makes the crackdown significant is the global spread of these networks. Many of the accused are believed to be based in countries such as Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan, from where they allegedly coordinate operations in Punjab through digital communication and local handlers.
High-Value Targets
Leading the list is Lakhbir Singh Landa, a suspected extremist figure associated with Babbar Khalsa International. He is accused of masterminding the Mohali RPG attack 2022 and running a transnational criminal network tied to drug trafficking.
Another prominent figure is Gaurav Putyal, believed to have taken charge of the Bambiha gang after the death of its earlier leader. Investigators link him to several high-profile killings and acts of violence.
Also named among top-tier offenders are Balwinder Singh Doni and Prabhdeep Singh, both accused of orchestrating crimes from abroad while maintaining networks within Punjab.
Second Tier of Accused
The second category includes individuals with slightly lower reward amounts but significant operational roles. Among them is Rohit Godara, who has been linked to the killing of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. Another name is Hari Boxer, accused of issuing extortion threats, including one targeting Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh.
Police say these operatives act as a bridge between overseas masterminds and ground-level executors, often coordinating crimes through encrypted messaging platforms.
A Wider Strategy
Authorities emphasise that the move is not just about arrests but about disrupting an entire ecosystem of organised crime that now operates across continents. Many of these gangs reportedly rely on illegal financial channels and recruit local youth to carry out violent acts.
Law enforcement agencies have increased collaboration with global bodies such as Interpol to track fugitives and initiate extradition proceedings. Several suspects are already under international watchlists.
Officials have urged the public to come forward with credible leads, assuring anonymity and protection for informants. The latest action reflects a more coordinated and aggressive effort to curb the growing influence of transnational gangster networks linked to Punjab.
