The Bishnoi Gang has been designated as a terrorist organization by the Canadian government, as announced by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree. Anandasangaree stated that the Bishnoi Gang has been involved in acts of terror, violence, and intimidation targeting specific communities. The listing of this criminal group as terrorists equips authorities with enhanced tools to combat and halt their criminal activities.
When a group is classified as a terrorist entity in Canada, the government gains the authority to freeze or confiscate assets, vehicles, and funds. It also provides Canadian law enforcement with additional resources to prosecute terrorist-related crimes.
Originating from the Punjab and Haryana states in northern India, the Bishnoi Gang is among several criminal syndicates that have expanded into North America in recent years. Despite its founder Lawrence Bishnoi being incarcerated in Indian prisons since 2014, the gang continues its illicit operations.
The gang’s violent activities are rooted in traditional village codes of honor and vengeance, but are primarily motivated by contemporary business and political interests. Media reports in India highlight drug trafficking and extortion as the main sources of income for the gang, both domestically and internationally.