Wanted in India, Free in the US, Canada; Transnational Gangs Thrive
Newsweek
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Fugitives wanted in India for serious crimes have established and expanded criminal empires in the United States and Canada using student visas and asylum claims. These networks, once operating solely against targets in India, have now extended their activities to North America, involving drug trafficking and extortion. Law enforcement agencies in multiple countries are now collaborating to address this growing transnational threat.
- Indian crime bosses, evading capture by Indian authorities, have strategically relocated to the US and Canada. They entered legally through student visas and asylum applications, creating safe havens from which to direct their criminal operations. Initially focused on targets back in India, these organizations have evolved, now engaging in drug and arms trafficking within North America and targeting local businesses.
- Key figures like Lawrence Bishnoi, operating from an Indian prison, allegedly direct operations in the US via encrypted apps. His brother, Anmol Bishnoi, formerly a significant operative in the US directing extortion and murders in India, was deported to India in November 2025. Goldy Brar, another wanted fugitive, is believed to be in the US and is linked to prominent killings.
- Operatives such as Arshdeep Singh Gill (Arsh Dala) in Canada and Bhanu Pratap Singh (Bhanu Rana) in the US are accused of various crimes including targeted killings, narcotics smuggling, and extortion. These individuals, flagged by Interpol and facing numerous charges, underscore the extensive reach of these criminal syndicates across continents.
