The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, which was designated a terrorist entity by the Canadian government in September, is reportedly trying to reshape its image within Canada’s South Asian community. They are portraying themselves as honorable criminals who target the wicked while sparing law-abiding citizens.
This gang has a history of using social media to claim or disclaim involvement in shootings, issue threats to rivals, and release various statements. However, there seems to be a recent effort to enhance their public perception.
This rebranding strategy coincides with a surge in extortion-related incidents affecting South Asian communities, particularly in British Columbia and Ontario. For instance, a café owned by Indian comedian Kapil Sharma in Surrey, B.C., was attacked for the third time, with gunmen firing shots through the windows while employees were present, fortunately without injuries.
The Surrey Police disclosed that there have been numerous extortion demands and shootings in the city this year, with a recent incident involving a woman in her 20s being shot while asleep, although she was not the intended target and survived.
The Bishnoi gang has distanced itself from attacks on innocent individuals, alleging that some extortion and violence incidents carried out in their name are by non-members trying to exploit the gang’s reputation. They claim to target employers who mistreat female workers, exploit foreign laborers, or international students.
Recently, a member of the Bishnoi gang named Fateh Portugal claimed responsibility for three shootings in Surrey directed at properties owned by the Dhesi family, a prominent Indo-Canadian family. Videos of the shootings were posted online, showcasing the violent acts.
Amid these incidents, there have been concerns raised about businesses being shot at, including two Surrey restaurants linked to a South Asian businessman. The attacks were attributed to Goldy Dhillon, an associate of the Bishnoi gang, who cited mistreatment of workers as the reason for targeting these establishments.
Journalist Gurpreet Sahota remarked that the Bishnois seek to deter imitators and maintain control over intermediaries. They justify their actions by claiming to only target those who exploit the community, portraying themselves as modern-day Robin Hoods.
While the gang’s efforts to portray themselves positively have garnered some support, there are apprehensions that their actions could escalate, affecting both high-profile and ordinary individuals. The Bishnoi gang has faced legal repercussions in Canada, including involvement in criminal activities such as the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and targeted violence against public figures.
Critics argue that the gang’s attempt to rebrand as protectors of the community is insincere, especially considering their involvement in violent acts against innocent individuals and businesses.