Law enforcement agencies from the United States, Canada and several European countries have announced the arrest of 24 individuals as part of 'Operation Hard Ball', a coordinated investigation into transnational organised crime groups linked to India.In total, authorities have charged 37 individuals, while 10 suspects remain absconding across the United States, India and Europe.

The investigation focused primarily on the Lawrence Bishnoi criminal network, its alleged associates including Goldy Brar and Anmol Bishnoi, as well as members of the Bhagwanpuria gang.

According to the US Department of Justice, the network is accused of involvement in racketeering, targeted killings, extortion, shootings, international drug trafficking and other organised criminal activities affecting Indian diaspora communities across multiple countries.

US prosecutors have also alleged that Lawrence Bishnoi directed gang operations from prison using smuggled communication devices and that he and Goldy Brar ordered the 2023 killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

Investigators claim the gang operates across several Indian states while maintaining an international presence in countries including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand.

During the investigation, authorities reportedly seized around 1,000 kilograms of cocaine, one kilogram of heroin, approximately 40,000 US dollars in cash and multiple firearms.

Indian agencies, including the National Investigation Agency, have previously described the network as part of a growing organised crime ecosystem with links to extremist elements and overseas operations.

Officials from participating countries stated that the coordinated action reflects continued international cooperation to dismantle transnational criminal organisations involved in violence, narcotics trafficking and extortion.