The Mumbai Crime Branch continues to struggle in obtaining custody of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who remains incarcerated at Sabarmati Jail in Gujarat. Despite his alleged involvement in multiple high-profile crimes, including the firing incident outside Bollywood star Salman Khan’s residence in April 2024, Mumbai Police have been unable to secure his custody, filing multiple applications without success.
Bishnoi’s Gang Claims Responsibility for Baba Siddique’s Murder
Recently, the Bishnoi gang claimed responsibility for the murder of former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader Baba Siddique. Mumbai Police are actively investigating Bishnoi’s potential involvement, as shooters arrested in connection with the killing have stated they belong to his gang.
Government Order Restricts Transfer of Bishnoi
A key obstacle in the police’s efforts is an order from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs under Section 268 (1) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). This order prohibits the transfer of high-profile prisoners like Bishnoi, citing concerns that moving him could lead to law and order issues. Initially set to expire in August 2024, the order has reportedly been extended, further complicating efforts to bring him into Mumbai Police custody.
Bishnoi’s Criminal Operations from Sabarmati Jail
Although Bishnoi is currently imprisoned, his gang’s operations are believed to be managed by his brother Anmol Bishnoi, along with Goldy Brar and Rohit Godar, who are all based abroad. Bishnoi was shifted to Sabarmati Jail from Delhi’s Tihar Jail in August 2023 due to his involvement in a cross-border drug smuggling case. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has highlighted in its chargesheet how Bishnoi’s syndicate is rapidly expanding, drawing comparisons to Dawood Ibrahim’s criminal network in the 1990s.
Bishnoi Gang’s Threat to Salman Khan
The Bishnoi gang’s latest social media post, taking responsibility for Siddique’s murder, also alluded to a long-standing vendetta against Salman Khan. The gang claims to target Khan due to his involvement in the blackbuck hunting case, as blackbucks are sacred to the Bishnoi community. In addition, the post warned that anyone supporting Khan or the Dawood Ibrahim gang could be targeted next. Over the years, the Bishnoi gang has repeatedly targeted the actor, with the most recent incident involving shots fired outside his Mumbai home in April 2024.
Ongoing Investigation into Baba Siddique’s Murder
Two of the suspects arrested in connection with Baba Siddique’s murder have confessed to being part of the Bishnoi gang. Additionally, a social media post from a gang member claiming responsibility for the murder is under investigation to confirm its authenticity. The police are now probing the possible connection between Siddique’s close ties to Salman Khan and the reason for his murder.
