Bishnoi Gang International Takedown (Operation Hard Ball)
Key Questions
What was Operation Hard Ball and its results?
It led to 37 charges and 24 arrests across the US, Canada, and Europe, with 1,000 kg of cocaine seized. Operations were run from prisons using smuggled phones.
How is the Bishnoi gang linked to the Nijjar assassination?
US indictments directly connect Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar to the 2023 killing of the Sikh leader in Canada. RCMP found no evidence tying the Indian government to the hit.
What diplomatic effects followed the Bishnoi syndicate takedown?
AFP and AP confirmed the scale of the international operation and resulting diplomatic fallout. Focus has shifted to the gang's transnational criminal activities.
Major international takedown of India-based Bishnoi syndicate: 37 charged, 24 arrests across US, Canada, Europe; 1,000 kg cocaine seized; linked to 2023 Sikh leader assassination in Canada; prison-run operations via smuggled phones. US indictments directly link Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar to Nijjar assassination. RCMP says no evidence linking Indian government to Nijjar hit, vindicating India's stance; focus remains on Bishnoi gang's transnational operations. AFP and AP confirm scale and diplomatic fallout. India launches Operation Garuda, a multi-agency anti-drug trafficking initiative, complementing the Bishnoi takedown.