India’s commitment to fighting transnational crime, as per its obligations under the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organised Crime (UNTOC) and its protocols ratified in 2011, emphasizes addressing human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and illicit firearms trafficking. A recent report underscores India’s approach of viewing these crimes as interconnected security threats rather than isolated incidents.
A joint operation by the US Justice Department, known as ‘Operation Hard Ball,’ has garnered international attention for its success in combating organized crime across borders. With numerous arrests, search warrants, indictments, and charged defendants spanning the US, Canada, and Europe, this operation signifies a significant collaborative effort against criminal syndicates.
The report highlights India’s pivotal role in the operation, as the networks under scrutiny, primarily targeting Indian victims and originating in India, necessitate India’s cooperation for effective dismantling. Notably, the criminal enterprises led by individuals like Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, along with networks in Canada, engage in various illicit activities globally, underscoring the need for coordinated international action.
India’s proactive stance against these criminal groups, which have been involved in targeted killings within the country, showcases its deep understanding of syndicates like the Bishnoi organization. With connections to high-profile incidents such as the assassination of public figures, India’s knowledge of these networks and their operations is considered invaluable in joint efforts against transnational crime.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Ottawa has acknowledged India’s collaboration in ongoing investigations, signaling a commitment to continued coordination among authorities from the US, Canada, Spain, and India as they progress with the cases.
