Canada declares Lawrence Bishnoi gang a terrorist entity

PTC Web Desk:  The Canadian government has officially designated the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a transnational criminal network involved in murder, extortion, and arms and drug trafficking, as a terrorist entity, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced on Monday.

“Acts of violence and terror have no place in Canada, especially those that target specific communities to create fear and intimidation,” said minister Anandasangaree. “The Government of Canada has listed the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity under the Criminal Code.”

The designation empowers Canadian authorities to freeze or seize assets linked to the gang within the country, including money, vehicles, and property. It also strengthens law enforcement powers to prosecute gang members, particularly in cases involving the financing of terrorist activities.

Under Canadian law, it is a criminal offence to knowingly provide property or financial support to a listed terrorist group or to handle its assets. Immigration and border authorities can also use the designation to determine an individual’s admissibility into Canada.

The Bishnoi gang, primarily operating out of India, has established a presence in Canada, particularly in areas with significant diaspora populations. The gang is implicated in violent crimes such as murder, shootings, and arson, and instills fear in communities through extortion and intimidation. According to the government, the gang targets businesses, cultural figures, and community leaders, creating a climate of insecurity.

The listing aims to bolster ongoing efforts by Canadian security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies to counter the gang's transnational criminal activities.