A 25-year-old individual was hired to instill fear in Punjabi singer AP Dhillon by the Bishnoi gang shortly after arriving in Canada on a student visa four years ago, as revealed in court documents obtained by CBC News. Despite facing challenges in academics and the Canadian job market, the individual, Abjeet Kingra, resorted to carrying out a violent attack on the musician’s residence in British Columbia in September 2024 to fulfill financial obligations to his family back home.
During the sentencing, Judge Lisa Mrozinski highlighted that Kingra and a co-accused engaged in arson and fired 14 shots into Dhillon’s house, causing significant damage. Following the attack, the perpetrators evaded a police officer and fled the scene, with Kingra later being apprehended in Ontario while his accomplice, Vikram Sharma, is believed to have fled to India.
The court proceedings revealed that Kingra’s actions were captured on a body camera, showcasing a calculated and deliberate approach to the crime. The footage was swiftly shared online by the Bishnoi group, emphasizing the orchestrated nature of the attack.
The case sheds light on the Bishnoi gang, recently classified as a terrorist entity by the Canadian government. Originating from Punjab and Haryana in India, these criminal organizations have expanded into North America, with a focus on illicit activities such as drug trafficking and extortion for financial gain.
AP Dhillon, a celebrated singer and producer, faced the wrath of the Bishnoi gang due to his association with individuals who had clashed with the organization. The judge noted Kingra’s role as a follower in the criminal enterprise, with the attack being meticulously planned to instill fear and terrorize the victim and those connected to him.
Despite aspirations of academic success and residency in Canada, Kingra now faces deportation following his convictions. He was sentenced to six years in prison for his involvement in the attack, with the sentences running concurrently, resulting in a total imprisonment term of four years and eight months after considering time served awaiting trial.
