After Dharmjit Mand’s residence and farm in Caledon, Ontario were shot at on November 25, 2025, he relocated his family to his brother’s home, assuming it would provide safety. However, on December 11, bullets penetrated the garage and windows of the property.
Although no injuries were reported during the incidents, which are currently under investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Mand revealed that the ordeal began with a series of WhatsApp messages and calls he received in October. A man, claiming affiliation with the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, demanded $2 million from Mand. Following Mand’s refusal to comply, the man began issuing threats.
After the shooting on November 25, Mand received a video from the man, showing the farm being attacked. Subsequently, after the December 11 incident, Mand was informed that he would be the next target.
The Bishnoi gang, previously labeled a terrorist organization by the Canadian government, has been accused of targeting South Asian individuals in incidents across British Columbia, Brampton, and now, Caledon.
The OPP disclosed that since December 2023, there have been approximately 41 cases of extortion in Caledon, with a recurring pattern identified. The victims are coerced into paying ransom under the threat of violence, often with the perpetrators possessing knowledge of their locations.
The Mayor of Caledon expressed concerns over the town’s insufficient resources to combat the issue and urged the federal government to intervene. Meanwhile, the OPP has made five arrests in connection with the extortion cases and continues ongoing investigations.
Recent incidents, including a business being repeatedly targeted, have further exacerbated the situation. The installation of CCTV cameras in key areas was partially funded by the province to assist in apprehending the culprits.
The Lawrence Bishnoi gang, originating in India and expanding into North America, is one of several criminal entities linked to organized crime activities in the region. Despite the connection to criminal groups, the OPP refrained from naming specific organizations to avoid legitimizing them.
Efforts to seek government support have been met with mixed responses, with the mayor of Caledon and Brampton advocating for a dedicated task force to address the escalating issue of extortion and violence within the South Asian community.
As discussions with the federal government continue, Mand, who has resided in Caledon for a decade, is contemplating relocating his family to the United States due to safety concerns.