Three people of Indian origin have been apprehended by Canadian authorities in connection with the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The incident, which occurred last year, had ignited a diplomatic dispute between Canada and India after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of "Indian agents" in the murder, a claim that India vehemently denied.
The arrested people, identified as Karan Brar (22), Kamalpreet Singh (22), and Karanpreet Singh (28), had been residing as non-permanent residents in Alberta for a period ranging from three to five years, according to Superintendent Mandeep Mooker of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team. They have been formally charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder as per court documents.
Authorities stated that the suspects were previously unknown to law enforcement, and investigations are underway to determine any potential links they may have had with the Indian government.
Cops probing suspects' connections to government of India
The murder investigation remains active, with Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Assistant Commissioner David Teboul confirming ongoing efforts to explore connections, including those possibly involving the government of India.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen wanted in India on multiple terrorism-related charges, was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in Surrey on June 18, 2023. Trudeau's assertions regarding Indian involvement led to heightened tensions between the two nations, resulting in reciprocal diplomatic expulsions.
Recently, another controversy arose when separatist slogans advocating for 'Khalistan' were raised during an event attended by Trudeau. This prompted India to lodge a formal protest. India expressed concerns about Canada's tolerance of separatism, extremism, and violence.
In response, Trudeau acknowledged the complexities surrounding Nijjar's murder, an issue he indicated could not be overlooked. However, India rebuked Trudeau's remarks, arguing that Canada's leniency toward separatist elements fosters an environment conducive to violence and criminal activity, posing risks to both countries' interests.
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