Punjab Targets Foreign Based Crime Syndicates, Rewards Announced For 28 Absconding Gangsters

Intensifying its aggressive crackdown on organized crime, the Punjab administration has released a list of 28 absconding criminals and announced cash rewards for anyone providing information leading to their arrest. This initiative is part of an ongoing campaign to dismantle gangster networks operating both within India and from foreign soil.

Officials have identified the listed individuals as key players in illicit activities, including contract killings, extortion, and the cross border trafficking of narcotics and weapons. Rewards ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹10 lakh have been announced for each accused, based on their affiliations and criminal history.

The significance of this operation lies in the global reach of these networks. Many of the accused are believed to be hiding in countries such as Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan. From these locations, they orchestrate crimes in Punjab through digital communication channels and local handlers.

High-Value Targets

Topping the list is Lakhbir Singh Landa an alleged militant linked to the Babbar Khalsa International. He is the mastermind behind the 2022 Mohali RPG attack and runs a transnational network involved in drug trafficking. Another prominent name is Gaurav Puttyal the new ringleader of the Bambiha gang whose name has been linked to several high-profile murders.

The list of top criminals also includes Balwinder Singh Doni and Prabhdeep Singh, who have orchestrated crimes from abroad and established networks within Punjab.

Second-Tier Accused

At the second tier, while the rewards offered are lower, the individuals play a significant role. This category includes Rohit Godara linked to the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala and Hari Boxer, known for issuing extortion threats and for allegedly targeting Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh.

Police state that these individuals act as a bridge between the foreign-based kingpins and the ground-level executors.

Comprehensive Strategy

Officials emphasize that the objective is not merely to effect arrests, but to completely dismantle the entire criminal ecosystem. Many of these gangs rely on illicit financial channels and recruit local youth to carry out acts of violence. Cooperation with global bodies such as Interpol has increased, fugitives are being monitored, and the extradition process has been expedited. Several accused individuals have been placed on international watchlists.