Washington: In a sweeping international operation targeting an alleged transnational criminal syndicate with roots in India, US authorities have announced criminal charges against gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and several of his close associates, while carrying out coordinated raids across multiple countries that resulted in dozens of arrests, major drug seizures, and the recovery of illegal firearms.
The action marks one of the most extensive investigations by American agencies into an India-linked organised crime network accused of operating across North America, Europe and Asia.
According to the US Department of Justice, law enforcement teams arrested 24 suspects during simultaneous operations conducted in the United States, Canada and parts of Europe. Investigators also executed around 50 search warrants, recovering approximately 1,000 kilograms of narcotics, firearms, ammunition and other evidence linked to organised criminal activities.
Murder conspiracy among key allegations
Federal prosecutors have named Lawrence Bishnoi, Goldy Brar, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria, Rohit Godara and several other alleged operatives in the case. Among the allegations is a conspiracy linked to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The indictment claims that the network was involved in coordinating violent crimes, trafficking narcotics, extortion, money laundering and targeted killings while maintaining operations in several countries.
Investigators allege that decisions were taken by senior members of the organisation while operatives executed instructions across different jurisdictions.
US plans extradition request
Officials said American authorities are preparing to initiate the process of seeking the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi, Jaggu Bhagwanpuria and another accused, Pundarpreet Singh, from India.
Meanwhile, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has announced a reward of 50,000 US dollars for information leading to the arrest of fugitive gangster Goldy Brar, who is believed to be operating outside India.
Authorities describe network as globally coordinated
During a media briefing, investigators said the criminal organisation had evolved into an international network with specialised operatives managing activities in different regions.
According to prosecutors, Lawrence Bishnoi allegedly continued to direct the syndicate from prison, while associates based overseas handled recruitment, financial transactions, logistics and enforcement activities.
Officials further alleged that Rohit Godara played a significant role in managing operations in Europe, while Goldy Brar oversaw activities linked to North America.
Operation follows years of investigation
US officials said the case was built after years of intelligence gathering in coordination with international law enforcement agencies. Investigators examined financial records, digital communications and cross-border criminal links before launching the coordinated enforcement action.
Authorities believe the latest crackdown has disrupted a major international criminal network, though they indicated that investigations are continuing and additional arrests could follow as the probe expands.
