Washington (Rajeev Sharma): The United States has expanded its crackdown on transnational organised crime by unsealing fresh federal charges against jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and several of his close associates, alleging that the criminal network operated across multiple countries and was linked to murder, drug trafficking, extortion and other serious offences.
The indictment, released as part of the multi-agency Operation Hard Ball, accuses Bishnoi of directing an international criminal syndicate despite being lodged in an Indian prison. US prosecutors allege that his associates coordinated activities across North America and Europe, carrying out violent crimes, narcotics trafficking and targeted attacks under his instructions.
Among the allegations is the claim that Bishnoi and his close aide Goldy Brar were involved in planning the 2023 killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. The accusation marks the first time US federal authorities have formally linked the two gangsters to the high-profile murder in court documents.
The operation involved law enforcement agencies from the United States, Canada and several European countries. Officials confirmed that 24 people have been arrested, while 37 individuals have been charged in connection with three separate criminal cases targeting organised crime groups with links to India.
Investigators allege that the syndicate generated revenue through large-scale drug trafficking, extortion, kidnapping and illegal firearms operations. Authorities also claimed that members of the network were involved in stealing narcotics shipments from rival criminal groups operating in North America.
During the investigation, officials seized nearly 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, heroin, cash and multiple firearms. Prosecutors described the network as one of the most extensive international organised crime operations currently under investigation.
US officials also indicated that they intend to pursue the extradition of key accused, including Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, though any such move would require legal proceedings under the extradition treaty between India and the United States.
While the indictment contains detailed allegations against the accused, US authorities did not accuse the Government of India of any role in Nijjar’s killing. The charges focus solely on the alleged criminal activities of the organised crime syndicate and its members.
Officials said investigations into the network remain ongoing and further legal action could follow as authorities continue to examine its operations across multiple countries.
