Three Indian nationals have been detained by Canadian officials in connection with the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, marking a fresh development in the case. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar have stepped in, underscoring the case’s complexity as India waits for more information.
Suspects with Indian Roots, Gang Links
Addressing the matter, Jaishankar acknowledged the arrests, stating that the suspects “apparently are Indians of some kind of gang background.” However, he emphasized the need to wait for Canadian police to share information, saying, “We’ll have to wait for the police to tell us.”
Organised Crime Concerns
The minister also touched upon India’s longstanding concerns about organised crime originating from Punjab operating in Canada. “One of our concerns which we have been telling them is that, you know, they have allowed organised crime from India, specifically from Punjab, to operate in Canada,” Jaishankar added.
Arrests and Charges
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) identified the three arrested individuals as Karanpreet Singh, 28, Kamalpreet Singh, 22, and Karan Brar, 22, all residents of Edmonton, Alberta. They have been charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder in connection with Nijjar’s killing.
Ongoing Investigations
RCMP Superintendent Mandeep Mooker stated that although the three have been placed under arrest, inquiries are still being conducted to ascertain their possible affiliations with the Indian government. Assistant Commissioner David Teboul confirmed to the existence of independent, stand-alone investigations, not just those pertaining to the people who were detained.
Trudeau Lauds Canadian Justice System
Amid the developments, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau lauded Canada’s justice system, stating, “This is important because Canada is a rule-of-law country with a strong and independent justice system, as well as a fundamental commitment to protecting all its citizens.” He acknowledged the ongoing RCMP investigation and the possibility of further arrests or charges.