The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which was designated a terrorist group by the Canadian government in September, is reportedly trying to transform its image within Canada’s South Asian community. They are portraying themselves as honorable criminals focusing on targeting wrongdoers while sparing law-abiding citizens.
The gang has a history of using social media to claim or disown involvement in shootings, issue threats, and release various statements. However, there seems to be a recent push by the gang to enhance their public perception.
This rebranding effort coincides with a series of extortion-linked incidents affecting South Asian communities, particularly in British Columbia and Ontario. Early on a Thursday, Kapil Sharma’s café in Surrey, B.C., was attacked for the third time, with gunmen firing shots through the windows while employees were present but fortunately unharmed.
Surrey Police reported numerous extortion demands and shootings related to extortion in the city this year, including an incident where a woman in her 20s was shot while sleeping in her bed, although she was not the intended target and survived.
The Bishnoi gang has distanced themselves from attacks on innocent individuals, claiming that some incidents in their name are carried out by non-members exploiting the gang’s reputation. They have stated intentions to target employers mistreating female employees or exploiting foreign workers and students.
A gang member named Fateh Portugal claimed responsibility for three shootings targeting properties owned by the Dhesi family in Surrey. The gang posted videos of the shootings, showcasing instances of gunfire at various locations.
Following these events, there were further shootings at Surrey restaurants owned by a South Asian businessman. Goldy Dhillon, associated with the Bishnois, attributed these acts to mistreatment of workers by the restaurant owner.
Gurpreet Sahota, a prominent journalist in the South Asian community, noted the Bishnois’ actions aim to deter imitators and maintain control over intermediaries. The gang justifies some shootings as targeting those who have exploited the community, attempting to portray themselves in a positive light.
Sahota mentioned a division in community perceptions, with some viewing the gang favorably for targeting alleged wrongdoers, while others fear the potential repercussions on ordinary citizens in the future.
Several individuals linked to the Bishnoi gang have faced charges or convictions in Canada, including the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The gang’s attempt to rebrand as protectors of the community has faced criticism, with skepticism over their true motives.
Overall, the Bishnoi gang’s actions have sparked concerns within the community, with debates on the authenticity of their claims and the potential risks posed by their activities.
