In a call for stronger measures against organized crime, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has urged the federal government of Canada to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, based in India, as a terrorist entity. This appeal was made during his visit to Surrey, British Columbia.
This request follows recent actions by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Surrey, who announced last month that two arrests were made in connection with an ongoing investigation into extortion targeting the South Asian business community. The police have indicated that several cases of extortion have links to the Bishnoi gang, whose notorious leader, Lawrence Bishnoi, is currently imprisoned in India.
Poilievre emphasized that a designation as a terrorist organization would help law enforcement and prosecutors combat the international extortion group that has been operational not only in Surrey but also in other Canadian cities such as Calgary and Brampton, Ontario. He articulated that such a classification would facilitate more effective policing and legal actions against the gang's criminal activities.
As part of the Conservative party's tough-on-crime strategy for the upcoming fall session of Parliament, Poilievre proposed additional measures aimed at addressing extortion. His party advocates for the implementation of increased mandatory prison sentences, starting with a minimum four-year sentence for first-time offenders. This initiative aligns with broader law enforcement reforms intended to enhance public safety.
During his news conference, Poilievre outlined his party's comprehensive plan, which includes the repeal of what he describes as "catch and release" bail policies, as well as enacting mandatory jail time for repeat offenders. He underscored the significance of a ban on the Bishnoi gang, highlighting that this would automatically categorize the network of extortionists and terrorists as criminal entities in Canada.
The urgency of this situation has also been echoed by other political leaders, including British Columbia Premier David Eby, who in June asked the federal government to officially declare the Bishnoi gang a terrorist organization. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith reiterated this call last month, demonstrating a growing consensus among provincial leaders regarding the need for decisive action against the gang.
The discussion surrounding the Bishnoi gang's activities and the potential for a terrorist designation reflects broader concerns about organized crime and public safety in Canada. The gang's involvement in extortion schemes targeting specific communities has raised alarm, prompting political leaders to seek effective legal frameworks to combat such threats.
As the Conservative party prepares for the fall parliamentary session, the focus remains on creating legislative changes that prioritize the safety and security of citizens while addressing the complexities of organized crime both domestically and internationally.
