Indian Authorities Move to Bring Lawrence Bishnoi’s Brother to Justice
In a significant development, the Mumbai Police Crime Branch has officially begun the extradition process for Anmol Bishnoi, brother of infamous gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who is now believed to be in the United States. This move comes after American authorities informed Indian officials of Anmol’s presence in the country. Known for his alleged role in high-profile criminal activities in India, Anmol is now the focus of a determined effort by Indian law enforcement to bring him back to face justice.
On October 16, the Mumbai Police informed the court of their intention to pursue Anmol’s extradition. This decision is part of an ongoing investigation involving multiple criminal cases, including the April 2022 firing incident outside Bollywood actor Salman Khan’s residence, in which Anmol is considered a primary suspect. Following the disclosure of his location in the US, Mumbai Police approached a special court to move forward with the extradition process.
Extensive Criminal Record and NIA’s Involvement
Anmol Bishnoi, aged 25, has gained notoriety for his involvement in various criminal operations believed to have been directed by his brother Lawrence Bishnoi, who is currently imprisoned in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail. Authorities allege that Anmol has been instrumental in orchestrating key criminal activities, including the attack on Khan’s residence and the murder of former Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader and ex-MLA Baba Siddique. During Siddique’s murder investigation, Anmol’s involvement came to light, especially through alleged communications with individuals linked to the attack.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) recently intensified efforts to capture Anmol, announcing a reward of ₹10 lakh for information leading to his arrest. With 18 criminal cases registered against him, Anmol has been implicated in several high-profile crimes, including his alleged role in supplying weapons and logistical support in the 2022 murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala. The NIA’s reward reflects the urgency of bringing Anmol into custody as his activities continue to pose a threat.
International Alert and Coordination with US Authorities
The push for extradition gained momentum after the issuance of a Red Corner Notice (RCN) against Anmol, which is an international alert for wanted criminals. Following the RCN, US authorities reached out to Indian officials, providing information on Anmol’s suspected location. However, there remains some ambiguity regarding his current status—whether he is detained or merely under surveillance in the US. In response, Indian authorities submitted extradition documentation to the Ministry of Home Affairs, which will then collaborate with the Ministry of External Affairs to coordinate with US officials on the matter.
Should the extradition process succeed, Mumbai Police Crime Branch will secure custody of Anmol, enabling them to press charges against him in cases related to the Salman Khan firing incident and other crimes. Despite these efforts, Indian authorities have yet to obtain custody of Lawrence Bishnoi, who remains in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail.
Anmol Bishnoi’s Alleged Network and Weapons Trafficking
Indian police sources have detailed Anmol’s suspected network, noting his extensive use of social media to communicate with suspects in various cases while purportedly operating out of Canada and the United States. The Hindustan Times reports that Anmol was instrumental in supplying high-caliber weapons, including a Turkey-made Tisas pistol and a Glock firearm, which were reportedly used in the killing of Baba Siddique. A total of ten individuals have been apprehended in connection with Siddique’s murder, including shooters and suppliers.
Anmol’s role extends beyond singular incidents, with investigators identifying him as a central figure in numerous organized crimes tied to the Bishnoi network. He is alleged to be coordinating operations even while abroad, further complicating efforts to bring him to justice. With the US confirming his presence, the Mumbai Police’s intent to extradite him marks a critical step in dismantling the Bishnoi criminal network and ensuring accountability for crimes that have impacted the public and prominent figures alike.
The extradition proceedings underscore India’s commitment to combating organized crime with international cooperation. As the case progresses, Indian authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit to curb cross-border criminal activities linked to the Bishnoi syndicate.
(With inputs from agencies)
