The RCMP and FBI Los Angeles have announced multiple arrests and charges targeting the alleged leaders of three global organized crime networks linked to extortion, drug trafficking, kidnapping and widespread violence in Canada and the United States.
The investigations targeted networks allegedly led by Lawrence Bishnoi, Ravinder Dhanda and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria. According to the RCMP, the criminal activity under investigation includes violence connected to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The joint operation followed two years of coordinated investigative work between Canadian and American law enforcement agencies, involving extensive information sharing and international cooperation.
Most of the arrests took place in the United States. In Canada, the RCMP arrested three individuals from British Columbia on provisional arrest warrants. Authorities are expected to seek their extradition to the United States.
Police also executed three search warrants in West Vancouver, White Rock and Surrey.
The RCMP said the operation focused on disrupting the leadership structures of major criminal organizations and stopping the flow of drugs and firearms into Canada.
The national police force said it will continue working with law enforcement agencies in Canada and abroad to dismantle transnational criminal organizations and address threats to public safety.
