Canadian investigative authorities have stated that their investigation has not found any evidence directly linking the Government of India to the killing of Khalistan supporter Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The statement marks a contrast with allegations previously made by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, whose remarks had triggered a significant diplomatic dispute between India and Canada.
According to Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Deputy Commissioner Lisa Moreland, investigators have not identified any evidence establishing the direct involvement of the Government of India in the murder. She also stated that Indian authorities cooperated with the investigation. However, officials emphasized that the homicide investigation remains ongoing and that all available evidence continues to be examined.
Registration Begins for FutureCrime Summit 2026, India’s Largest Cybercrime Conference
Meanwhile, the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), in a federal indictment, has alleged that the conspiracy to kill Nijjar was linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar criminal network. According to the indictment, the organisation is part of a transnational crime syndicate allegedly involved in contract killings, extortion, kidnappings, narcotics trafficking, illegal arms smuggling and other serious offences across North America.
Investigators said law enforcement agencies from Canada, the United States and Europe recently carried out a coordinated enforcement initiative known as Operation Hard Ball targeting the network. The operation reportedly resulted in the arrest of 24 suspects. Authorities also claimed to have seized nearly 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, 1 kilogram of heroin and approximately US$40,000 in cash during multiple raids.
The FBI has designated Goldy Brar as a fugitive and announced a reward of US$50,000 for information leading to his arrest. According to U.S. authorities, the criminal network has been operating across Southern California, other parts of the United States and Canada, allegedly engaging in violent crimes and organised criminal activities.
The investigation has also brought scrutiny to Punjab Police officer Gurinderjit Singh Nagra, a Station House Officer (SHO). According to the FBI, he allegedly participated in a conspiracy to extort US$400,000 from an Indian-origin family living in the United States by threatening to implicate them in a false criminal case. Following the allegations, Punjab Police transferred the officer to the police lines and initiated a departmental inquiry.
Investigators are further examining whether organised criminal groups operating across India, Canada and the United States maintained broader operational and financial links. Digital communications, financial transactions and cross-border contacts are being analysed to determine the full extent of the alleged network and identify any additional individuals involved.
Media reports have also indicated that U.S. authorities may seek the extradition of Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria in the future if the legal requirements for such proceedings are met. However, no formal extradition request has been publicly confirmed so far.
The investigations by Canadian, American and Indian authorities remain ongoing. All allegations are subject to investigation and judicial proceedings, and any determination of criminal liability will ultimately depend on the evidence presented before the competent courts.
