The Enforcement Directorate conducted multiple raids on Tuesday in Haryana and Rajasthan as part of an ongoing money laundering investigation targeting the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
The central probe agency is currently conducting searches at approximately a dozen locations in both states under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act to carry out a thorough inquiry.
The ED's action follows FIRs and charge sheets filed against Lawrence Bishnoi and his deputy Satwinderjit Singh, also known as Goldy Brar, by the National Investigation Agency, Haryana Police, and other state police agencies.
Lawrence Bishnoi was recently incarcerated and is also a key accused in the murder case of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala.
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The Enforcement Directorate is delving into allegations that Bishnoi and his gang members were involved in funnelling funds generated in India through activities such as extortion, drug smuggling, and arms trafficking to Canada and other nations. These funds are purportedly being used by pro-Khalistan supporters.
Hailing from Fazilka in Punjab, Bishnoi has been in custody since 2014, following his arrest during a confrontation with the Rajasthan Police. After being shifted to Delhi's Tihar jail in 2021, he was arrested once again by the Punjab Police on June 14, 2022, in connection with the high-profile murder of singer Sidhu Moosewala on May 29.
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Given the multitude of cases under investigation by various police agencies, Bishnoi has experienced frequent transfers between jails, further highlighting the complexity of the legal proceedings surrounding his alleged criminal activities. The Enforcement Directorate's raids mark a significant step in unraveling the financial aspects of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang's operations. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
"Investigations have revealed that a terrorist, gangster and drug smugglers syndicate led by Bishnoi was involved in many targeted killings and extortion from businessmen and professionals, including doctors, and this had created a widespread scare and terror among the public at large," the NIA had said.
