Toronto: Peel Regional Police on Monday welcomed the federal government’s decision to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity under Canada’s Criminal Code, calling it a crucial step in tackling organized crime and protecting South Asian communities.
The announcement allows law enforcement agencies to use stronger measures against the gang, including seizing property, freezing assets, and preventing financial support for criminal activities linked to the network.
In a statement, Peel Police said they were “strongly supportive” of the designation, noting it would strengthen efforts to counter extortion, homicides, and intimidation campaigns that have disproportionately targeted members of Peel Region’s South Asian community.
“This designation will help provide police services with enhanced abilities to seize property, freeze assets and prevent ongoing or future funding of criminal activities associated to the Bishnoi Gang,” the statement read.
Police emphasized the importance of the decision for Canada’s Indian diaspora, one of the largest immigrant communities in the country. “Our Indian community represents one of the largest diasporas in Canada. This important measure will help Peel Regional Police, and other services nationally, provide support and relief to those in our community who may be targeted by this terrorist group,” the force added.
The Bishnoi gang, led by incarcerated Indian gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been linked to high-profile murders, extortion rackets, and transnational criminal networks. The Canadian designation comes amid growing concerns about the gang’s attempts to expand its influence overseas, including in North America.
Officials said the step will bolster ongoing investigations and cooperation between Canadian agencies and international partners to dismantle the group’s financial and criminal operations.