A member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, identified as Abjeet Kingra, is set to be deported to India after the Canadian Immigration and Refugee Board approved his removal, according to official findings. Kingra is currently serving a six-year prison sentence in Canada and is also facing additional charges related to a separate violent incident. The decision marks a significant development in a case linked to organised criminal activity and cross-border gang networks.

Authorities said Kingra was involved in a 2024 shooting incident outside the residence of Punjabi singer AP Dhillon on Victoria Island in Vancouver. The attack, which did not result in any injuries, led to his arrest by Canadian police on charges including arson and discharge of a firearm with intent. Investigators have since connected the case to wider gang-related operations attributed to the Lawrence Bishnoi network.

During immigration proceedings, Kingra reportedly claimed that he had been coerced into criminal activities after coming into contact with gang members while working in Canada. He stated that he initially joined a packers and movers company and was later drawn into illegal operations under the promise of financial gain, which he said was intended to support his family in India. He also argued that deportation would put him at risk from the gang in India.

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However, the Immigration and Refugee Board rejected his claims, stating that there was insufficient evidence to support fears of targeted harm upon return. The board also noted that the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is an organised criminal network involved in serious offences including murder, extortion, shootings, arson, and drug trafficking. Canadian authorities have previously launched hundreds of investigations linked to gang-related violence and extortion activities across multiple provinces.

Officials further stated that the gang continues to operate internationally, including in regions such as British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario. Reports have also alleged that its leadership remains active despite imprisonment, maintaining influence through recruitment and coordinated criminal operations. These findings formed part of the broader assessment that supported Kingra’s deportation order.

The shooting at AP Dhillon’s residence in 2024 had sparked widespread concern in the Punjabi music industry and among international law enforcement agencies. Although the singer was not present during the attack, the incident was widely circulated online and linked to gang threats involving prominent public figures. Following his arrest, Kingra is expected to appeal the deportation decision, even as Canadian authorities proceed with arrangements for his transfer to India.

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