The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has garnered attention for its alleged involvement in high-profile crimes, including the murders of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and Maharashtra politician Baba Siddique. The gang has also been tied to frequent death threats against Bollywood superstar Salman Khan. Exploring the gang’s origins, its criminal operations, and the key individuals associated with it sheds light on one of northern India’s most notorious criminal networks.
The Murder of Baba Siddique
Baba Siddique, a prominent politician from Maharashtra, was tragically shot and killed on October 12, 2024. Known for his political connections, Siddique served as a minister in the Congress-NCP government between 2004 and 2008. He was also closely linked to Bollywood, often seen in public with celebrities like Salman Khan and Shah Rukh Khan.
The investigation into Siddique’s murder pointed to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, with a social media post from a gang member allegedly taking responsibility for the crime. The Mumbai police are investigating multiple angles, including the possibility of a contract killing, political rivalry, or disputes over a slum rehabilitation project.
This murder thrust Lawrence Bishnoi and his gang back into the spotlight, underscoring their involvement in high-profile crimes.
Who is Lawrence Bishnoi?
Lawrence Bishnoi, a 31-year-old from Punjab, has become one of India’s most feared criminals. Born into a well-off family in Ferozepur district, Bishnoi was involved in student politics before shifting to criminal activities. He became the president of the Student Organisation of Panjab University (SOPU) but soon found himself embroiled in serious crimes, with his first charge for attempted murder in 2010.
Despite being incarcerated in Sabarmati Central Jail, Bishnoi continues to manage his operations from behind bars. His criminal record includes extortion, murder, and smuggling, making him a dominant figure in India’s underworld.
Gang Rivalries and Criminal Operations
The Bishnoi gang’s rise to power has been marked by violent clashes with rival groups, often leading to revenge killings. The gang’s operations span across northern India, targeting political figures and businessmen alike. One of Bishnoi’s key associates, gangster-turned-politician Rocky, helped him expand his operations. However, Rocky was assassinated in 2020 by a rival gang.
Apart from violent rivalries, the gang is heavily involved in drug trafficking and cross-border smuggling. The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has linked Bishnoi’s network to international smuggling operations, enhancing his criminal reach.
Lawrence Bishnoi’s Threats to Salman Khan
Bishnoi gained widespread attention after threatening Bollywood actor Salman Khan in connection with the 1998 blackbuck poaching case, where Khan was accused of killing a sacred animal. The Bishnoi community, which considers the blackbuck sacred, has held a long-standing grudge against Khan.
These tensions escalated when Bishnoi and his gang allegedly planned to assassinate the actor. In April 2024, shots were fired outside Salman Khan’s residence, leading to increased police protection around the star. Bishnoi’s threats against Khan not only boosted his notoriety but also highlighted cultural tensions between the actor and the Bishnoi community.
The Killing of Sidhu Moosewala
The murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala in 2022 is perhaps the most shocking crime associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. Moosewala, known for his outspoken lyrics and massive fan following, was shot dead in a brutal attack. Bishnoi’s associate, Goldy Brar, claimed responsibility for the killing, stating it was in retaliation for the murder of youth leader Vicky Middukhera.
Goldy Brar, who fled to Canada, continues to operate as part of the Bishnoi gang’s international network. His public admission of the crime further cemented the gang’s reputation as a powerful and dangerous syndicate.
How the Bishnoi Gang Operates
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang has established itself as a major criminal organization, known for its involvement in extortion, contract killings, and smuggling. What sets the gang apart is its ability to operate even while Bishnoi remains behind bars. The gang uses violent tactics to eliminate rivals, as seen in the murders of Sidhu Moosewala and Baba Siddique.
The gang’s operations extend beyond high-profile murders. It has also been involved in extortion cases targeting wealthy individuals. Recently, an Afghan national in Delhi was threatened by the gang after refusing to comply with their demands, demonstrating their reach across different sectors.
Expanding Influence in Mumbai’s Underworld
With the decline of traditional underworld figures like Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is making its presence felt in Mumbai. The gang’s links to Bollywood and local politics have raised concerns about its expanding influence.
Mumbai’s police force is on high alert, taking measures to curb the gang’s reach. Security has been heightened for potential targets like Salman Khan, and authorities are closely monitoring the gang’s activities in the city.
As the Lawrence Bishnoi gang continues to make headlines, its violent operations and growing influence have positioned it as a formidable criminal force in India.
