The deportation hearing for Abjeet Kingra, an alleged member of the India-based Bishnoi extortion gang, was halted Thursday because federal officials lost track of him. The Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) both stated they did not know Kingra's whereabouts, despite the B.C. court confirming he remains in custody awaiting trial for a shooting and arson.
The Bishnoi gang is designated a terrorist group in Canada, linked to violence targeting communities with large South Asian populations. Kingra is among the first Bishnoi members to face deportation amid a crackdown on extortion. He reportedly entered Canada on a student visa and allegedly joined the gang, which extorts victims in Canada. He previously pleaded guilty to shooting and setting fire to vehicles at a Punjabi singer's home, receiving a six-year sentence. He faces further charges for a separate shooting and arson incident.
The RCMP has accused the Bishnoi gang of acting on behalf of the Indian government to target Sikh activists. While Canada expelled Indian diplomats over alleged involvement in violence, ties are being rebuilt, drawing criticism from Sikh organizations concerned about their security.