Delhi Police on Wednesday captured two members of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang network during an encounter in New Ashok Nagar. The men, identified as Kartik Jakhar and Kavish, are reportedly part of a wider criminal nexus that has roots in Punjab and links abroad.
According to officials, the duo opened fire on police during the arrest, prompting the police to retaliate. One of the men was shot in the leg before both were taken into custody. Investigators revealed that the men worked for gangster Harry Boxer, who is currently based in the United States and has more than seven criminal cases registered against him in India.
The arrests come at a time when law enforcement agencies are stepping up efforts against international crime links. Earlier this month, the Jharkhand Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) brought back gangster Mayank Singh, also known as Sunil Meena, from Baku, Azerbaijan. Superintendent of Police Rishav Kumar Jha confirmed it was Jharkhand’s first-ever international extradition. Singh is believed to be a crucial link between the Bishnoi gang and another group led by Aman Sahu, with around 50 cases filed against him across Jharkhand and Rajasthan.
Police say Singh coordinated operations for both gangs, including attacks carried out by shooters arrested in May 2024 in Raipur. Those arrests were based on intelligence that led to captures in Rajasthan and Jharkhand. Officials believe these operations thwarted at least two to three planned attacks.
Gang activities remain widespread in regions such as Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Rajasthan, often targeting businesses and local communities. Punjab, particularly Mohali and Chandigarh, continues to witness rising crime and gang wars linked to groups with both domestic and international ties.
Authorities warn that the growing influence of organized crime threatens public safety and economic stability. Residents in affected areas have voiced concerns, demanding stronger measures to curb violence. Police stress that cooperation between communities and law enforcement is vital to breaking these networks.
The arrests of Kartik Jakhar and Kavish mark another step in the ongoing crackdown on organized crime. Officials say investigations will continue, with the focus on dismantling cross-border links and ensuring security for citizens and businesses alike.
