Lawrence Bishnoi, a name that has recently dominated headlines, is drawing attention not just in India but internationally, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau mentioning him in connection to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Currently incarcerated at Sabarmati Jail in Gujarat, Lawrence Bishnoi’s story is one of transformation from a promising student in Punjab to a notorious criminal.
Having entered the world of crime during his college years, Lawrence Bishnoi’s first act of violence came as he became involved in student politics. Investigative agencies label him as the leader of an international gang, with his lawyer claiming he faces over 40 criminal cases, including murder and extortion, many of which are still pending hearings.
News18 Hindi uncovered a collection of unseen photographs from Lawrence Bishnoi’s school and college days, showcasing a stark contrast to his current life. As curiousity grows about his past, these rare images provide a glimpse into the life of Lawrence Bishnoi before he became a household name associated with crime.
According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), 31-year-old law graduate Lawrence Bishnoi, who has been incarcerated since 2015, is accused of operating an international criminal gang. Originally from Punjab, Lawrence Bishnoi first gained public attention during a court appearance, where he was noted for his short stature and lean build, as well as his beard and mustache.
The NIA alleges that Lawrence Bishnoi manages his gang through associates from various prisons in the country and abroad, including Canada and neighbouring Nepal.
In a surprising twist, Lawrence Bishnoi stated in a televised interview last year that he opposed the Khalistan movement, which advocated for an independent Sikh state, insisting that he is not “anti-national.” However, the video of this interview has since been removed, and authorities are investigating how it was leaked from the jail.
Media reports indicate that Lawrence Bishnoi, lodged at the Sabarmati Central Jail, has been transferred between different prisons due to security concerns and his history of violating prison regulations.
While specific allegations against Lawrence Bishnoi in Canada have not been disclosed, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) noted that individuals supporting the Khalistan movement in Canada have been “specifically targeted.” The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been mentioned in this context and is alleged to have connections with agents.
Lawrence Bishnoi and his associates are facing numerous charges, including murder, extortion, and terrorism. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) alleges that they aim to instill fear through targeted killings of prominent social and religious leaders, film stars, singers, and businessmen.
Among the most notable cases linked to Lawrence Bishnoi is the murder of renowned Punjabi artist Sidhu Moose Wala in 2022, for which the NIA has identified Lawrence Bishnoi’s associates as responsible. Reports indicate that over 20 individuals have been arrested in connection with this case, with Lawrence Bishnoi named as the primary suspect.
In 2018, a video surfaced in which Lawrence Bishnoi threatened Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Earlier this year, gunfire was reported near Khan’s residence, and police arrested two shooters connected to the incident, claiming it was orchestrated by Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang. However, the gangster is yet to comment on these allegations.
On Saturday, a shocking incident occurred when shooters killed former Maharashtra minister and NCP MLA Baba Siddique in Mumbai before fleeing the scene. A man claiming affiliation with Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang took to Facebook to claim responsibility for the attack. While police officials have indicated that Lawrence Bishnoi orchestrated the conspiracy, they have not disclosed any supporting evidence.
Lawrence Bishnoi’s lawyer, Rajni, stated that his client has approximately 40 cases registered against him across the country since 2012, relating to murder, extortion, and terrorism. He maintains that Lawrence Bishnoi opposes the allegations, although many of the cases are still awaiting hearings.
A school photo of Lawrence Bishnoi has surfaced, showing him posing with classmates after receiving an award. However, details about the year and context of this photograph remain unknown.
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