Fact Check: "Bishnoi gang, led by imprisoned Lawrence Bishnoi, orchestrates violence in Canada."
What We Know
The Bishnoi gang, led by Lawrence Bishnoi, has been implicated in various violent crimes in Canada, particularly targeting members of the South Asian community. According to the RCMP, the gang is believed to be involved in extortion and threats against individuals and businesses, specifically within the Sikh community. Recent statements from Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have linked the gang to violent activities that may be orchestrated from India, where Bishnoi is currently imprisoned. Trudeau mentioned that Indian diplomats have allegedly provided information to the Bishnoi gang, which has resulted in violence against Canadians who oppose the Indian government (source-1).
In British Columbia, Premier David Eby has called for the Bishnoi gang to be designated as a terrorist organization due to its involvement in extortion cases that have instilled fear within the community (source-2). The gang's activities reportedly extend beyond Canada, with the National Investigation Agency of India stating that Bishnoi operates a transnational crime syndicate from prison (source-7).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim that the Bishnoi gang orchestrates violence in Canada is substantial. The RCMP has publicly identified the gang as a player in violent crimes, which aligns with reports of extortion targeting the South Asian community (source-2). The credibility of the RCMP as a source is high, given its role as Canada's national law enforcement agency, which conducts investigations into organized crime.
However, there are conflicting narratives regarding the involvement of the Indian government in these activities. Indian officials have denied any connection between their government and the Bishnoi gang, labeling the Canadian claims as "preposterous" (source-1). This denial raises questions about the reliability of the information being circulated and suggests a complex geopolitical backdrop influencing the situation.
Despite these denials, the consistent reports from Canadian law enforcement and government officials indicate a serious concern regarding the gang's influence and operations in Canada. The allegations of orchestration of violence from prison and the gang's extensive network, which reportedly includes around 700 members, further substantiate the claim (source-1, source-7).
The call by Premier Eby to classify the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization underscores the severity of the situation and the perceived threat to public safety. This classification would provide law enforcement with additional tools to combat the gang's activities, which have been described as terroristic in nature due to the fear they instill (source-2, source-5).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that the Bishnoi gang, led by Lawrence Bishnoi, orchestrates violence in Canada is supported by credible evidence from multiple sources, including law enforcement agencies and government officials. The gang's involvement in extortion and threats against the South Asian community, coupled with allegations of orchestration from prison, confirms the seriousness of the situation. The ongoing diplomatic tensions between Canada and India further highlight the complexities surrounding this issue.
Sources
- Inside the world of Lawrence Bishnoi, the Indian gangster Canada says ... CBC
- B.C. Premier calls on Ottawa to label India's Bishnoi gang as ... The Globe and Mail
- الموقع العربي الرياضي الأول | كووورة kooora.com
- 'We don't take this lightly': Canada's BC premier seeks ... Times of India
- Premier David Eby to ask PM to declare Bishnoi gang a terrorist group ... Vancouver Sun
- مباريات اليوم - كووورة kooora.com
- Bishnoi gang has stoked fear in Canada for years, says B.C. city ... Global News
- Lawrence Bishnoi: the feared Indian mob boss implicated ... The Guardian
