Law enforcement agencies conducted Operation Hard Ball on July 7, 2026, across the US, Canada and Europe, arresting 24 people linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
Federal prosecutors in Los Angeles unsealed three indictments on July 7, 2026. They charged Lawrence Bishnoi and Goldy Brar with ordering the June 18, 2023, killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia.
The coordinated Operation Hard Ball led to 24 arrests, including 11 in California. In total 37 defendants face charges of racketeering, drug trafficking and shootings. Authorities seized about 1,000 kg of cocaine and a dozen firearms.
First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli said, "Transnational criminal gangs who spread fear, drugs, and violence will face the full force of justice." The Royal Canadian Mounted Police confirmed the joint effort.
Bishnoi remains imprisoned in India. Ten fugitives are still sought.
