B.C. Government Hails Canada’s Terrorist Designation of Bishnoi Gang

UPDATE: The British Columbia government has welcomed the federal designation of the India-based Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity, a move announced by Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree earlier today. This urgent decision aims to bolster security measures against rising threats in Canadian communities, particularly in Surrey, where the gang has been linked to increasing extortion incidents.

In a press release dated October 30, 2023, Anandasangaree emphasized that the designation empowers law enforcement to seize assets, including property, vehicles, and funds associated with the gang’s criminal operations. This is a critical step for Canadian security and intelligence agencies as they confront the growing menace posed by organized crime.

Authorities report that Surrey police are currently investigating 48 extortion threats and have recorded 29 extortion-related shootings in the area this year alone. Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General of British Columbia, Nina Krieger, stated, “Extortion targeting South Asian community members in Surrey and throughout the Lower Mainland is absolutely unacceptable.” She stressed that the province is committed to protecting its communities from violence and intimidation, which has become an alarming reality for residents.

The new designation allows law enforcement to freeze bank accounts and confiscate assets linked to criminal enterprises, a move that Krieger believes provides essential tools to combat the escalating threat. “This designation will allow police to go after criminal assets. Extortion is all about money,” she added.

Despite these measures, critics argue that more needs to be done to bring perpetrators to justice. Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke expressed her frustration, stating, “I don’t think any one of us will be taking any victory laps until these thugs and criminals are caught.” She highlighted the ongoing terror faced by residents, as criminals engage in violent acts against businesses and homes in the city. “Can the province do more? Yes, they can. Absolutely. I would love them to and I’ve asked them to assign a special prosecutor to this issue in Surrey.”

While arrests related to extortion have occurred in Alberta and Ontario, no such actions have been reported in British Columbia yet. Krieger confirmed that police are undertaking complex investigations, stating, “It’s not only about arrests; it’s about convictions. We want to ensure that the most robust cases go forward to lead to convictions and hold these criminals to justice.”

As the situation unfolds, the B.C. government and law enforcement agencies are under pressure to act decisively against the Bishnoi gang and similar groups. Residents of Surrey and surrounding areas are left grappling with the immediate impacts of these threats, hoping for swift action and effective measures to ensure their safety.

Stay tuned for further updates as authorities continue to address this critical issue. The fight against organized crime in British Columbia is ramping up, and community safety hangs in the balance.