NIA Targets Anmol Bishnoi with ₹10 Lakh Bounty Amid Rising Gang Violence

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has ramped up its focus on international gangster networks, placing a ₹10 lakh bounty on Anmol Bishnoi, brother of Lawrence Bishnoi, who remains imprisoned in India. This action comes amid escalating violence linked to the Bishnoi crime syndicate, a network spread across continents and allegedly supported by pro-Khalistan groups. Anmol, who operates out of Canada and the United States, is accused of orchestrating attacks on high-profile public figures, including NCP leader Baba Siddique and Bollywood actor Salman Khan.

NIA Intensifies Investigations into Bishnoi Crime Network

Background and Recent Developments

Anmol Bishnoi has emerged as a central figure in orchestrating organized crime from abroad. Following the murder of Baba Siddique, the NIA has listed Anmol as “most wanted” and announced a ₹10 lakh reward for information leading to his capture. Law enforcement officials claim that Anmol oversees operations for the Bishnoi gang alongside Goldy Brar, a notorious figure linked to the assassination of singer Sidhu Moose Wala in May 2022. Both Anmol and Brar reportedly work from North America, coordinating extortion, targeted attacks, and threats against prominent public figures, including industrialists, politicians, and artists.

Anmol fled India using a fake passport and has since been linked to various attacks. In April 2024, Mumbai police issued a lookout circular after he claimed responsibility for a shooting outside Salman Khan's residence. This incident, along with Siddique’s murder on October 12, showcases the extent of his operational reach.

Anmol Bishnoi's Alleged Role in Baba Siddique’s Assassination

The NIA intensified its pursuit of Anmol following the assassination of NCP politician Baba Siddique. Siddique was shot outside his son’s office in Bandra East by three armed assailants, allegedly connected to the Bishnoi network. Investigations reveal that the shooters coordinated with Anmol over Snapchat, using the platform to receive instructions and target information. The connection between Anmol and the attack was corroborated by examining the digital footprints left by the assailants, confirming that they were in direct contact with Anmol and his close associate, Shubham Lonkar.

Reports indicate that Anmol provided the shooters with surveillance photos of Siddique and his son, MLA Zeeshan Siddique. This incident, similar to other attacks orchestrated by the Bishnoi syndicate, has been linked to the gang’s objective of expanding its influence over key figures and enforcing control through fear and intimidation.

Expanding Syndicate Operations Across India and Abroad

Interconnected Networks and International Influence

The Bishnoi gang operates an extensive network with deep roots across multiple states, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Maharashtra. According to NIA officials, Anmol and his associates manage recruitment, funding, and weapon supply from abroad, coordinating with regional gang leaders. This sophisticated setup ensures seamless operations across jurisdictions, complicating efforts to dismantle the network.

The gang’s overseas operations have gained attention due to their alleged ties with pro-Khalistan groups like Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). The NIA’s investigation report in March 2023 outlined that the Bishnoi crime syndicate and separatist organizations share common objectives and resources, working to establish strongholds and influence the music industry, sports leagues, and social media platforms.

Previous Cases and NIA’s Growing Focus on Organized Crime

Anmol Bishnoi’s name is mentioned in two NIA chargesheets, spotlighting his role in organizing and executing attacks. In addition to the shooting of Baba Siddique, Anmol is linked to an attack outside Salman Khan’s residence in April. In that case, suspects claimed to be acting on Anmol’s “final warning” issued to the Bollywood superstar, who has been on the gang’s radar for some time.

Apart from Siddique and Khan, the gang’s previous activities include the high-profile murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala, which Anmol allegedly facilitated. Following this incident, law enforcement agencies began viewing the Bishnoi gang as more than just a regional threat. The NIA identified it as a well-coordinated, international syndicate, operating similarly to the pre-1993 Mumbai underworld.

Law Enforcement Challenges in Curbing Organized Crime

NIA’s Nationwide Crackdown and the ₹10 Lakh Bounty

NIA’s recent actions against Anmol and his associates underscore its commitment to curbing organized crime in India. Law enforcement officials state that the reward of ₹10 lakh is intended to encourage public assistance in tracking Anmol’s whereabouts. His international operations make it challenging for Indian agencies to gather real-time intelligence, but the NIA remains committed to dismantling this intricate network.

An NIA officer involved in the investigation remarked, “Anmol Bishnoi’s international travels between Canada and the U.S. make his apprehension challenging. The NIA’s ‘most wanted’ status and reward are key steps in bringing him to justice.”

Legal Complexities and International Cooperation

The transnational nature of Anmol Bishnoi’s operations poses hurdles for Indian law enforcement, requiring greater cooperation with agencies in Canada and the U.S. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has reportedly opened discussions with foreign governments to facilitate his extradition. However, the diplomatic and procedural complexities inherent in extradition requests add layers to the investigative process.

The NIA has also proposed amendments to existing legislation to empower the agency to pursue individuals engaged in organized crime from outside India’s borders. As gang violence escalates and continues affecting high-profile individuals and communities, enhanced legal frameworks could be a significant factor in curbing the operations of organized crime networks.

Public Safety and Impact on Society

The Bishnoi syndicate’s activities have instilled fear among the public and affected multiple industries. According to experts, the gang’s extortion activities have impacted several prominent sectors, including the music industry and the sports community. The NIA’s investigation has brought to light the extent to which organized crime and digital communication platforms intersect, allowing gangs to target and intimidate their victims remotely.

The situation is especially concerning given the syndicate’s ties with separatist organizations. The NIA’s designation of the Bishnoi network as a “new underworld” reflects its pervasive influence across India, making public safety a priority concern for national and regional authorities.

Conclusion

The NIA’s actions against Anmol Bishnoi reflect a heightened commitment to dismantling one of India’s most extensive organized crime networks. As Anmol continues to evade capture, the announcement of a ₹10 lakh bounty underscores the agency’s determination to bring him and his associates to justice. The Bishnoi syndicate’s reach into politics, entertainment, and other sectors highlights the urgency of curtailing this international criminal network. Public cooperation, cross-border legal collaborations, and advanced investigative tools are expected to play pivotal roles in the ongoing efforts against organized crime in India.