“I Thought It Was a Toy Gun”: Indian Student in Canada Says He Never Knew Friend’s Alleged Bishnoi Gang Links

Toronto: What began as an ordinary friendship has now placed an Indian student in Canada at the centre of a high-profile immigration case linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

Jashandeep Singh, who moved to Canada in 2022 to pursue higher education and build a better future, has told immigration authorities that he was completely unaware that his friend, Arshdeep Singh, was allegedly associated with the Bishnoi gang. Arshdeep was recently deported to India after Canadian authorities accused him of being involved in a series of extortion and shooting related incidents across multiple provinces.

During an immigration hearing, Jashandeep said he had never taken part in any criminal activity and had no knowledge of his friend’s alleged connections. One of the key points raised during the proceedings was a photograph showing him posing with a firearm. Explaining the image, Jashandeep said he believed the weapon was a toy gun at the time and never suspected it could be real.

“I thought it was a toy gun,” he reportedly told the hearing, adding that he now regrets not questioning the situation more carefully.

Canadian authorities are seeking his deportation, arguing that his association with individuals linked to organized crime raises concerns. However, Jashandeep has maintained that he came to Canada solely as a student and has never been involved with gangs or criminal networks.

The case has attracted significant attention as Canadian law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the overseas reach of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The network, allegedly operated through associates in different countries, has been linked to extortion, threats and violent crimes, making it a growing concern for authorities.

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As the immigration case continues, the central question remains whether a friendship alone is enough to cast suspicion on someone who insists he knew nothing about the criminal activities allegedly taking place around him.