New Delhi: A major international law enforcement operation targeting transnational organised crime networks with links to India has resulted in the arrest of 24 suspects across the United States, Canada and Europe. The coordinated crackdown, named Operation Hard Ball, focused on criminal groups accused of murder, extortion, drug trafficking, kidnappings and other violent offences spanning multiple countries.
Authorities have charged 37 individuals through three separate indictments following a years long investigation involving agencies from North America and Europe. Among those arrested were 13 suspects in the United States, three in Canada and one in Spain, while seven others were already in custody. Investigators are still searching for 10 fugitives believed to be in the United States, India and Europe.
The operation also led to the seizure of nearly one metric ton of cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, around 40,000 US dollars in cash and 12 firearms. Search operations were conducted at dozens of locations, including several properties in California.
One of the key investigations centres on the alleged criminal network led by jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Prosecutors claim he directed an international syndicate from prison through contraband mobile phones and encrypted communication devices. The network is accused of involvement in political assassinations, contract killings, extortion, kidnappings, human smuggling and international drug trafficking.
Among the allegations is the claimed orchestration of the June 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia. Prosecutors allege the attack was carried out on the instructions of Bishnoi and his associate Satinderjeet Singh, also known as Goldy Brar.
Separate indictments also target the Bhagwanpuria syndicate and an alleged drug trafficking organisation led by Ravinder Singh Dhanda. Investigators claim these groups operated extensive international networks involved in narcotics smuggling, illegal firearms trade, contract killings and extortion across several countries.
Officials described the operation as one of the most significant international actions against organised crime in recent years. Authorities emphasised that the indictments contain allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. If convicted, several of the accused could face prison terms ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment.
