The Canadian province of Alberta has requested that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang be declared a terrorist organization. The government has cited its violence, extortion, and drug trafficking activities as a threat to national security.
Canada: Security agencies in the Canadian province of Alberta are increasingly concerned about the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis have formally requested that this gang be declared a terrorist organization. They assert that it is an international criminal network committing serious crimes in Canada and other countries.
They have warned that the gang's activities are not just criminal, but directly linked to violence and terror. If action is not taken in time, it could affect the safety of ordinary citizens.
Concerns over the international reach of the Bishnoi gang
Danielle Smith and Mike Ellis stated that the activities of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang are not limited to India. The gang is also involved in drug trafficking, extortion, targeted killings, and violent incidents in Canada. According to them, this gang is active in provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, and the South Asian community is its target.
British Columbia government had previously raised the demand
Earlier, British Columbia Premier David Eby had also demanded that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang be declared a terrorist organization. He mentioned that incidents of extortion, shootings, and arson by this gang were continuously coming to light. These crimes have affected not only British Columbia, but also cities like Edmonton and Brampton.
Eby also said that the Bishnoi gang is specifically targeting members of the South Asian community, creating a sense of fear and insecurity among minority groups.
'You are not welcome here' - Alberta government's stern message
Danielle Smith and Mike Ellis issued a joint statement on social media saying that the actions of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang are now beyond tolerance. They stated, "This gang's activities know no boundaries and respect none. Alberta wants to send a clear message, you are not welcome here."
They believe that declaring this gang a terrorist organization would provide law enforcement agencies with more legal and technical power. This would enable the police, investigative agencies, and security apparatus to take concrete and decisive action against such networks.
Impact on the South Asian community
The statement also acknowledged that the activities of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang are severely affecting the South Asian community residing in Canada. The threats, extortion, and violence being perpetrated by the gang have created an atmosphere of terror within these communities.
The government says that it is committed to providing a safe environment for these people. No organized criminal group, whether local or international, will be allowed to flourish.
Demand for action from the Prime Minister
The Alberta government has appealed to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to prioritize this issue and declare this gang a terrorist organization. Smith and Ellis said, "The time has come for the federal government to take concrete steps. Ensuring the safety of every Canadian citizen is the government's primary responsibility."
