Did the NIA Capture Lawrence Bishnoi’s Aide for Supplying Fake Passports?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Sarkar was arrested for supplying fake passports.
- The operation helped the murderer of Sidhu Moosewala escape.
- The NIA is investigating organized crime syndicates.
- Rahul's arrest is part of a broader investigation initiated in 2022.
- A reward for Anmol Bishnoi has been announced.
New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) The National Investigation Agency (NIA) apprehended Rahul Sarkar, an aide of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, effectively dismantling a network dedicated to producing fraudulent passports. This operation was crucial in aiding the fugitive responsible for the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moosewala escape abroad in 2022, according to an official statement on Friday.
Sarkar was brought before a Special Court, which has placed him under NIA custody for further interrogation, the official disclosed.
The NIA's investigations revealed that the accused had been instrumental in assisting gang members by providing them with forged passports, enabling their escape after committing various crimes.
Notably, he had aided Sachin Thapan, also known as Sachin Thapan Bishnoi, who is the main suspect in the murder of Sidhu Moosewala.
Rahul's arrest is part of the NIA's broader inquiry initiated in August 2022, following directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.
This case pertains to the conspiracy among criminal gangs and syndicates to generate funds and recruit individuals for illicit activities.
The ongoing NIA investigation is being conducted under the provisions of criminal conspiracy and sections 17, 18 & 18-B of the UA (P) Act, 1967.
Earlier, last year, the NIA had announced a reward of ₹10 lakh for information leading to the capture of Anmol Bishnoi, Lawrence's brother, who is implicated in two charge sheets.
In a related incident, a pivotal member of the Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate, identified as Anjeet, was arrested in Rohini, Delhi in 2023. Anjeet was linked to 16 serious crimes, including murder and attempted murder.
The police found him in contact with notorious gangsters Goldy Brar and Anmol Bishnoi, and he was privy to several assassination targets.
During his arrest, authorities seized a semi-automatic pistol and five rounds of ammunition from Anjeet, who was apprehended after receiving specific intelligence regarding his movements near Heliport, Rohini.