Public Safety Minister says Operation Hard Ball delivers major blow to organized crime networks

Canada's Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, says a joint FBI and RCMP investigation known as "Operation Hard Ball" has dealt a significant blow to three transnational organized crime groups, including the Lawrence Bishnoi and Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gangs. He said individuals involved in intimidation and violent criminal activity in Canada will continue to face enforcement action.

According to the minister, authorities have made 24 arrests worldwide as part of the operation, including three arrests in Canada. He said the coordinated investigation has disrupted criminal networks accused of contributing to violence and public safety concerns in communities across the country.

The minister said investigators have linked the groups to offences including extortion, drug trafficking, kidnappings and other violent crimes. He added that the federal government remains committed to targeting organized crime through coordinated law enforcement operations and financial investigations.

According to the Government of Canada, the Lawrence Bishnoi group was added to Canada's list of terrorist entities in September 2025. The designation provides law enforcement agencies with additional legal authorities to investigate and disrupt the group's activities. The government has also expanded financial investigations, including "follow the money" initiatives aimed at tracking extortion proceeds and combating money laundering.