US Charges Bishnoi In Nijjar Killing
US authorities have charged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and his associate Satinderjeet Singh, also known as Goldy Brar, in connection with the 2023 killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
Lawrence Bishnoi Charged In Nijjar Killing
A federal indictment unsealed in Los Angeles alleges that Bishnoi and Brar directed the killing of Nijjar outside a gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18, 2023.
Bishnoi is currently in custody in India, while Brar remains wanted. US prosecutors alleged that Bishnoi coordinated the operation from prison using smuggled mobile phones and shared Nijjar’s photograph and addresses with co-conspirators.
The indictment forms part of a wider law enforcement operation targeting India-linked transnational crime networks operating across North America and other countries.
US Canada Probe Targets Crime Networks
Authorities said 37 defendants linked to three India-based organised crime groups have been charged in cases involving murder, extortion, racketeering, drug trafficking, firearms offences and intimidation.
Law enforcement agencies from the United States, Canada and Europe were involved in the broader investigation. Several suspects have been arrested or are already in custody, while others remain wanted.
Officials described the action as a major crackdown on criminal networks accused of spreading violence and fear among diaspora communities.
No Indian Government Role Alleged
Nijjar’s killing had triggered a major diplomatic crisis after Canada alleged possible links between Indian government agents and the murder. India strongly rejected those allegations as baseless.
The latest US indictment does not allege any Indian government role in the killing. It focuses on Bishnoi, Brar and alleged organised crime links.
Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, campaigned for Khalistan and had been designated a terrorist by India. The case continues to remain sensitive for India-Canada relations.
