Toronto, Canada – Three Indian nationals have been arrested and charged in connection with the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader, in Vancouver. The incident sparked a diplomatic dispute between Canada and India, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggesting potential involvement of the Indian government, which Delhi denied.
The suspects, identified as Karan Brar, 22, Kamal Preet Singh, 22, and Karan Preet Singh, 28, were apprehended in Edmonton, Alberta. They face charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. All three individuals had been residing in Canada for three to five years, according to court records.
Authorities mentioned ongoing investigations into potential ties to the Indian government, highlighting the complexity of the case. Collaboration with Indian counterparts has presented challenges over the years, with Assistant Commissioner David Teboul emphasizing that the probe extends beyond the recent arrests.
Despite the arrests, authorities believe there may be additional individuals involved in Nijjar’s murder, hinting at the possibility of further arrests or charges. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed interest in information sharing from Canadian police, noting that the suspects appear to have ties to a criminal background in India.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent advocate for the creation of Khalistan, an independent Sikh homeland, was assassinated last year in Surrey. His supporters refute claims that he was a terrorist, emphasizing threats to his life due to his activism. Canadian intelligence reportedly warned Nijjar about potential risks before his tragic death.
Moninder Singh, a friend of Nijjar and a member of the British Columbia Gurdwaras Council, commended progress in the investigation while acknowledging lingering safety concerns and tensions within the Sikh community. The case continues to unfold as authorities explore the complexities surrounding Nijjar’s assassination and potential links to Indian entities.
The diplomatic fallout following Trudeau’s allegations against India has strained relations between the two countries, with accusations of offering refuge to extremist elements. The clash underscores the delicate balance between international diplomacy and domestic security concerns, as both nations navigate the aftermath of Nijjar’s murder.