Ottawa, Oct 3: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has warned that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang poses a “significant threat to the safety and security of Canadians,” following its formal designation as a terrorist entity under Canada’s Criminal Code.
The RCMP said the listing will bolster efforts to disrupt the gang’s operations and assist in criminal investigations. “The activities of the Bishnoi gang represent a significant threat to Canadians. The RCMP is committed to investigating all terrorism related activities, regardless of the group or individuals involved,” the police said in a statement to The Statesman.
Individuals associated with the gang and involved in certain activities may now face charges under the Criminal Code, while those who knowingly facilitate terrorist activity can also be prosecuted, the RCMP added.
“The designation of the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity will help police support ongoing investigations and strengthen our ability to prevent and disrupt terrorist activity,” the RCMP noted.
Last year, Canadian authorities had claimed that Lawrence Bishnoi was acting as an “action arm” of the Indian government, allegedly targeting Sikh separatists in Canada. The RCMP stated that investigations revealed some criminal activities in Canada were conducted by the Bishnoi gang, based on evidence collected through comprehensive and law-abiding investigations.
The terror listing is expected to significantly enhance Canada’s legal and operational capacity to counter the gang’s activities and protect public safety.