Explained: What is Operation Hard Ball? How Lawrence Bishnoi gang came under US’ radar? How the gang is operating from outside India?

What was once considered a regional criminal gang in India has now become the focus of a major international law enforcement operation. In July 2026, the US Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI, Canada’s RCMP, and several European agencies launched Operation Hard Ball, targeting transnational crime networks allegedly linked to jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi.

According to US authorities, charges have been filed against 37 people, while 24 suspects have been arrested across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Investigators also carried out raids at more than 50 locations, seizing around 1,000 kilograms of cocaine and heroin, firearms, and large amounts of cash.

What is Operation Hard Ball?

Operation Hard Ball is the result of a multi-year international investigation into organized crime networks operating across several countries. US prosecutors say the operation aims to dismantle groups involved in murder, extortion, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, kidnapping, and money laundering.

The case is also being pursued under the US Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, a law used to prosecute organized criminal enterprises. Investigators allege that Lawrence Bishnoi continued to lead the network while serving time in an Indian prison.

How did the Bishnoi Gang reach the US authorities’ radar?

Investigators say the gang gradually expanded beyond India as several associates settled in Canada, the United States, and parts of Europe.

Authorities allege that gang members targeted Indian-origin businessmen and members of the Indian diaspora by demanding extortion money. Victims were reportedly threatened that their relatives in India could be harmed if payments were not made. These cross-border activities eventually drew the attention of international law enforcement agencies.

How the gang allegedly operated from prison

According to the US indictment, Lawrence Bishnoi remained the alleged head of the organization despite being in jail. Close associates, including Goldy Brar and Rohit Godara, are accused of managing operations from overseas.

Investigators claim the network used encrypted messaging apps, social media platforms, hawala channels, and illegal mobile phones to communicate and coordinate criminal activities across multiple countries.

Social Media became a tool to spread fear

US investigators say the gang did not just commit crimes, it also used social media to build fear.

According to the indictment, threatening videos, online messages, and posts claiming responsibility for violent attacks were used to intimidate victims and strengthen the gang’s reputation. Authorities believe this fear helped the group carry out extortion more effectively.

Countries where the network allegedly operated

Investigators say the Bishnoi network extended beyond India into Canada, the United States, Spain, and other parts of Europe.

Authorities allege that gang members based abroad coordinated drug trafficking, extortion, contract killings, and hawala operations while focusing heavily on the Indian diaspora.

Drugs, weapons and illegal money

During Operation Hard Ball, investigators seized nearly one tonne of cocaine and heroin, several firearms, and cash.

Officials believe profits from drug trafficking were used to expand the network, purchase weapons, and pay shooters. Investigators say this international drug trade transformed the gang from a regional criminal group into a transnational organized crime syndicate.

Major cases linked to the gang in India

In India, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has been linked to several high-profile criminal cases, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala, threats against Bollywood actor Salman Khan, extortion of businessmen, firing incidents, contract killings, and gang wars across multiple states.

Police agencies in Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Haryana, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have arrested several alleged gang members and dismantled multiple modules in recent years.

Who else is under investigation?

Operation Hard Ball is not limited to the Bishnoi gang alone.

US authorities say the operation also targets two other major Indian organized crime syndicates, including the Jaggu Bhagwanpuria network. Investigators allege these groups were involved in similar criminal activities such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, extortion, and murder.

Why this operation matters for India

The investigation could help Indian agencies access financial records, digital evidence, and intelligence gathered by international partners. It may also strengthen cooperation on extradition requests, money trail investigations, and future joint operations.

Read Also: What is Operation Hard Ball? FBI targets Lawrence Bishnoi network across US, Canada, Europe over killing of…, offers $50000 reward for Goldy Brar, seize 1000 kg cocaine, firearms and…