The US Justice Department has unveiled federal indictments revealing that ‘India-based’ organized crime groups targeted Indian diaspora communities in North America through violence and intimidation. These groups are accused of engaging in racketeering, murder, extortion, kidnapping, firearms trafficking, and drug trafficking across the US, Canada, and Europe. The indictments, part of ‘Operation Hard Ball’, involve 37 defendants associated with three criminal organizations, with 24 suspects already arrested in a multinational operation.
First Assistant US Attorney Bilal A. Essayli stated that these criminal organizations have been involved in extensive violence, including targeted killings, extortions, and kidnappings. They specifically targeted communities in the US and Canada with connections to India, threatening physical harm and death to extort money from individuals and their families in India. The Lawrence Bishnoi Organized Crime Group, as per the indictment, used violence to instill fear and then extort victims, publicizing their violent acts through various media to enhance their reputation.
The indictment also mentions the targeting of prominent figures in India and Indian diaspora communities to maximize publicity and strengthen future extortion attempts. Notable incidents include the killing of a Khalistani terrorist in British Columbia and the shooting at the residence of a well-known Indian actor and singer. Gang leader Satinderjeet Singh, alias Goldy Brar, is implicated in ordering the assassination. The gang is accused of claiming responsibility for various violent acts, including killings and threats, to promote their enterprise and create fear among the public.
The gang members allegedly identified potential extortion targets through various means, including government databases and social media platforms, and used encrypted messaging applications to threaten victims with violence. Another indictment involves the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria organized crime group, which also targeted members of the Indian diaspora and collaborated with corrupt law enforcement officials in India to extort money from victims. The investigation, spanning the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia, involved multiple law enforcement agencies.
