Brampton mayor echoes call for PM to label Bishnoi gang a terrorist group
Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is adding his voice to the growing chorus calling for the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to be classified as a terrorist organization by the federal government. The India-based gang has been implicated in various criminal activities in the Peel region, including extortion and targeted shootings, according to Peel police.
In an interview with CBC Radio’s Metro Morning, Brown expressed his concerns about the gang, stating that they “terrorize communities, individuals, and are a predatory organization.” He emphasized the transnational nature of the gang, noting that it presents a unique threat that hasn’t been seen in the region for a long time.
The push to designate the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist group comes on the heels of similar calls from B.C. Premier David Eby. Eby has raised alarms about the gang’s involvement in extortions and other crimes against the South Asian community, prompting him to write to Prime Minister Mark Carney urging for the designation.
Brown believes that labeling the gang as a terrorist organization would provide Peel police with additional tools to investigate and address similar crimes in the region effectively.
The timing of these calls coincides with efforts to repair the strained relationship between Canada and India. Recently, the two countries agreed to reinstate their high commissioners and explore options for renewed visa services for each other’s citizens and businesses. This development followed a period of tension that culminated in the expulsion of senior diplomats from both countries last fall.
The RCMP had accused the Indian government of involvement in a network of violence in Canada, including homicides and extortions, as well as alleged targeting of members of the pro-Khalistan movement by the Bishnoi gang on Canadian soil at the government’s behest.
While the designation of the gang as a terrorist group could complicate Carney’s efforts to mend the Canada-India relationship due to these past allegations, experts like Sanjay Ruparelia suggest that the recent diplomatic breakthrough may pave the way for a fresh start.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree has acknowledged the calls to designate the gang as a terrorist organization but stated that the decision ultimately lies with public security agencies. He emphasized the importance of following an independent process and awaiting recommendations before taking any action.
In conclusion, the issue of classifying the Lawrence Bishnoi gang as a terrorist organization raises complex diplomatic considerations while addressing urgent security concerns in the Peel region. Stay tuned for further developments on this pressing issue.
