‘You Are Not Welcome Here’: Another Canadian Leader Wants Bishnoi Gang Declared Terrorist Entity

Last Updated:July 16, 2025, 10:01 IST

Smith said designating the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist group would give law enforcement stronger tools to disrupt its cross-border operations and criminal networks.

Bishnoi, currently in Indian custody, is linked to several high-profile crimes, including the 2022 assassination of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala. (PTI)

In a bold move underscoring growing concerns over transnational crime, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has formally called on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and his federal cabinet to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity. Smith cited the gang’s far-reaching involvement in organised crime, violence, and targeted killings both within Canada and internationally.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Smith labelled the Bishnoi network a global threat, describing it as a transnational criminal organisation engaged in drug trafficking, extortion, and murder, including high-profile incidents on Canadian soil. She is the 19th Premier of Alberta and leads the United Conservative Party (UCP).

“The Lawrence Bishnoi Gang is a transnational criminal network responsible for violence, extortion, drug trafficking and targeted killings, including here in Canada. Its reach is global, and its intent is criminal and violent," Smith stated on X. She added firmly, “Alberta wants to send a clear message: you are not welcome here."

Highlighting the gang’s ability to operate across borders without fear of jurisdictional limits, Smith stressed that designating the Bishnoi group as a terrorist organisation would provide law enforcement with stronger tools to disrupt its operations. She argued that such a move would enable municipal and provincial agencies to leverage expanded resources and coordination capacities.

“Formally designating the Bishnoi Gang as a terrorist entity will unlock critical powers, allowing provincial and municipal-level law enforcement agencies to access the necessary tools and resources needed to effectively disrupt operations and protect our people," the Premier wrote.

Calling on Prime Minister Carney to act urgently, Smith asserted, “The time for action is now. Alberta’s government is asking the federal government and Prime Minister Mark Carney to join them in taking a stand and acting to protect Albertans and all Canadians."

The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, long known to Indian authorities, has increasingly come under international scrutiny. Bishnoi, currently in Indian custody, is linked to several high-profile crimes, including the 2022 assassination of Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala—a killing that thrust his name into global headlines. The gang has also claimed responsibility for the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique in 2024, further intensifying its image as a violent and organised entity with international links.

Premier Smith’s demand follows rising anxieties in Canada about the infiltration of foreign criminal networks and the growing frequency of cross-border violence. Her call is expected to add pressure on the federal government to review existing national security protocols and potentially expand the country’s terrorist designation list.

News world ‘You Are Not Welcome Here’: Another Canadian Leader Wants Bishnoi Gang Declared Terrorist Entity