Rustad welcomes terrorist designation of Bishnoi gang, calls for stronger enforcement and deportation of non-citizen offenders
VICTORIA, B.C.: Conservative Leader John Rustad says today’s federal decision to designate the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity is a necessary step to protect British Columbians, especially members of B.C.’s South Asian communities who have faced intimidation, extortion, and violence from transnational criminal networks.
“Today’s designation is a critical step to protect families and small businesses across B.C. who’ve been terrorized by organized crime,” said Rustad. “But a listing alone is not enough; it must be matched with swift, sustained enforcement.”
Rustad said the Conservative Opposition is calling for a coordinated five-point plan to restore law, order, and safety:
- Immediate asset freezes and criminal prosecutions of all Bishnoi affiliates and members under Canada’s anti-terror laws.
- Coordinated enforcement and prosecution across jurisdictions with specialized RCMP units and dedicated Crown prosecutors.
- Removal or refusal of entry for any foreign nationals linked to terror or organized crime.
- Guaranteed minimum sentences for extortion offences connected to organized crime.
- Deportation of any non-citizen or non-permanent resident convicted of gang-related or terror-linked crimes.
“In Surrey and across the Lower Mainland, families and businesses are being shaken down by extortion rackets tied to transnational gangs,” Rustad said. “Canadians expect their government to defend the rule of law. There is no place in our province for terror-linked gangs or those who enable them.”
Rustad said Ottawa must also provide specialized RCMP resources and intelligence capacity to ensure enforcement is swift and decisive. At the same time, the province must streamline the prosecutorial process to bring extortion and organized crime cases to justice quickly.
“British Columbia will not tolerate threats against community leaders, journalists, or places of worship,” said Rustad. “We will work with police, federal partners, and international allies to keep our streets safe, defend the rule of law, and ensure those who target Canadians are held to account.”
– 30 –
Media Contact:
Ryan Painter
Communications
[email protected]
Do you like this page?
