The notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, whose gang has been involved in multiple high-profile crimes, remains in Gujarat’s Sabarmati Jail. Despite the Mumbai Police's efforts to take him into custody for ongoing investigations, a Home Ministry order has blocked the transfer. This order, which was initially set to expire in August 2024, has now been extended for another year.
Why Mumbai Police Can't Take Custody
Lawrence Bishnoi was moved from Delhi’s Tihar Jail to Sabarmati Jail in August 2023 due to his involvement in a drug smuggling case. At that time, the Ministry of Home Affairs issued an order under Section 268 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). This section allows the government to prevent the transfer of a prisoner if it poses a risk to law and order.
The original order was supposed to last until August 2024, but sources have revealed that it has been extended for another year. This effectively bars the Mumbai Police from taking Bishnoi’s custody, despite their efforts following several incidents involving his gang.
Criminal Activities Linked to the Bishnoi Gang
The Bishnoi gang gained national attention after claiming responsibility for the murder of popular Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala in 2022. More recently, in April 2024, the gang was linked to a firing incident outside actor Salman Khan’s residence, Galaxy Apartments, in Bandra, Mumbai.
Adding to this, last week, former Maharashtra minister Baba Siddique was killed, and Bishnoi’s gang has reportedly claimed responsibility for the murder. Despite these serious allegations, the police's efforts to interrogate Bishnoi directly have been unsuccessful due to the Ministry’s order.
Threats to Salman Khan and the Bishnoi Community's Grievance
Lawrence Bishnoi and his gang have repeatedly made threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan. The threats are rooted in an incident from 1998 when Salman Khan allegedly killed blackbucks during the filming of the movie Hum Saath Saath Hain. The blackbuck is considered sacred by the Bishnoi community, and this act has led to years of animosity.
Bishnoi himself has publicly stated that he wants to kill Salman Khan. During a 2018 court appearance, Bishnoi was quoted saying, “We will kill Salman Khan in Jodhpur. Everyone will know once we take action.”
Gang's Day-to-Day Operations
While Lawrence Bishnoi remains in prison, his gang continues to operate under the leadership of his brother, Anmol, along with gangsters Goldy Brar and Rohit Godara. The gang has been involved in various criminal activities, with some of its members now in police custody.
A recent confession by one gang member claims that the murder of Baba Siddique was linked to his alleged connections with India's most wanted terrorist, Dawood Ibrahim, and his close association with Salman Khan.
Conclusion
The extension of the Ministry of Home Affairs’ order has created significant obstacles for the Mumbai Police in their attempt to bring Lawrence Bishnoi into custody. With the gang’s continued involvement in high-profile crimes, including threats against prominent individuals, the situation remains tense as authorities work to contain the gang's activities.