24 Arrested in Global Crime Probe; Bishnoi, Brar Charged in Nijjar Murder

Jul 8, 2026

61 min

Jul 8, 2026 04:30

24 arrested in 'global organised crime' probe: Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar charged in Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder, says US DOJ

## Charges in Nijjar Murder

Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar have been charged by U.S. prosecutors for allegedly orchestrating the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, Canada. Nijjar, a Khalistani separatist, was killed outside a Sikh temple in Surrey on June 18, 2023.

## Operation Hard Ball

The U.S. Department of Justice announced the arrest of 24 individuals linked to India-based organized crime groups. These arrests are part of "Operation Hard Ball," targeting violent crimes, extortion, and international drug trafficking across the U.S., Canada, and Europe. In total, 37 people have been charged in three federal indictments.

## Broader Criminal Network

The operation also involved charges against Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and Ravinder Singh Dhanda. Dhanda is accused of running a drug distribution network smuggling cocaine and methamphetamine internationally. Bhagwanpuria's gang is described as a transnational syndicate with members in several countries, including the U.S., Canada, and the UK.

## Diplomatic Tensions

Following Nijjar's murder, former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement, leading to a diplomatic standoff between Canada and India. Both countries expelled diplomats, but relations have since improved under Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who has distanced Canada from linking India to criminal activities on its soil.

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