In a worrying development, the emergence of anti-India extremist activities in Canada has come under scrutiny, further straining bilateral relations between New Delhi and Ottawa. The spotlight is on individuals involved in criminal and terror activities, with some of them remaining elusive and wanted by Indian and Canadian authorities.
Goldy Brar: From College Dropout to Crime Kingpin
Goldy Brar, a 29-year-old college dropout, has rapidly transformed into one of the most wanted criminals in both India and Canada. After relocating to Canada in 2019 on a student visa, Brar escalated his criminal activities, becoming involved in local gang rivalries. His criminal record now includes murder, criminal conspiracy, supply of illegal firearms, and attempt to murder charges in more than 20 cases in Punjab, India. Brar is also connected to terror gang networks, earning him a spot on Interpol’s red corner notice list and Canada’s most wanted list.
“Brar is the brain of the Bishnoi gang, who brings a plan together and executes it. Even weapons and money are arranged by Brar,” said a police official.
Brar’s notoriety reached new heights when he claimed responsibility for the high-profile murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in May 2023, allegedly to avenge the death of a student leader.
Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa: Aided by Pro-Khalistan Outfit
Lakhbir Singh Sandhu, also known as Landa, fled to Canada in 2017 and became a close associate of Pakistan-based gangster-turned-terrorist Harvinder Singh, alias Rinda. Landa is wanted in two rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) attack cases in Punjab, including attacks on a police station and intelligence headquarters. He has a long criminal history, including murder, attempt to murder, and drug smuggling cases.
“Landa continues to involve more members in his gang to commit crime,” confirmed Tarn Taran SSP Gurmeet Singh Chauhan.
Despite being wanted by law enforcement, Landa’s family continues to reside in India, and he remains a significant threat to the region.
Arsh Dalla: The ‘Individual Terrorist’
Arshdeep Singh Gill, known as Arsh Dalla, has been designated as an ‘individual terrorist’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) by the Indian government. Dalla is associated with the banned Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and is involved in generating funds, providing logistical support to gangsters and terror outfits, and carrying out criminal activities, including contract killings. He is facing a total of 35 FIRs and is wanted by the NIA.
“Dalla has been attempting to re-establish control over the outfit since the death of KTF’s chief Nijjar,” police stated.
Dalla managed to flee to Canada in 2018 and has since been involved in terror activities, drug smuggling, and multiple murders.
Raman Judge: Prominent KTF Recruiter
Ramandeep Singh, known as Raman Judge, is an alleged operative of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Judge moved to Canada in 2017 and is involved in targeted killings and radicalization of youth. He is believed to be residing in British Columbia, Canada, and is wanted in multiple criminal cases, including involvement in the murder of a Dera Sacha Sauda follower and an attack on a priest.
“Raman Judge is among the prominent members of KTF in Canada, who carries out radicalization of youth and lures them to carry out targeted killings,” said an AGTF official.
Satnam Singh Satta: Accomplice of Landa
Satnam Singh alias Satta, a resident of Tarn Taran, is a close associate of Landa. He recently moved to Canada from Portugal and is facing around 10 criminal cases, including murder and attempted murder. Satta is co-accused with Landa in RPG attacks and other criminal activities. He left India in 2019 and is now wanted by law enforcement agencies.
This surge in anti-India extremist activities in Canada has raised concerns, and Indian authorities are actively pursuing these individuals, seeking international cooperation to bring them to justice.
Summary:
- Anti-India extremist activities in Canada raise concerns amid deteriorating bilateral relations.
- Goldy Brar, a college dropout turned criminal mastermind, is wanted for murder and terror-related charges.
- Lakhbir Singh Sandhu alias Landa, associated with pro-Khalistan groups, is wanted in RPG attacks and other crimes.
- Arsh Dalla, designated as an ‘individual terrorist,’ faces 35 FIRs and is linked to the Khalistan Tiger Force.
- Raman Judge, another KTF operative, is believed to be residing in Canada.
- Satnam Singh Satta, an accomplice of Landa, recently moved to Canada and is wanted for multiple criminal cases.