Canada arrests 3 Indians in connection with Sikh leader's killing

Canadian authorities on Friday arrested and charged three Indian men in connection with the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year, raising questions about possible ties to the Indian government.

Nijjar, 45, was fatally shot outside a Sikh temple in Surrey, a suburb of Vancouver known for its significant Sikh community. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously implied that the Indian government was involved, sparking tensions with New Delhi.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) identified the suspects as Karanpreet Singh (28), Kamalpreet Singh (22) and Karan Brar (22).

RCMP Inspector Mandeep Mooker said investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspects have any connection to the Indian government.

The Indian mission in Ottawa refused to comment on the matter.

Nijjar, a Canadian citizen who advocates for an independent Sikh homeland, Khalistan, has been labeled a “terrorist” by the Indian government. The presence of Sikh separatist groups in Canada has been a source of contention for New Delhi.

Recently, the White House expressed concern about reports of Indian intelligence involvement in assassination plots in Canada and the U.S.

RCMP Deputy Commissioner David Teboul emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and other suspects may be arrested.

The three suspects, all Indian nationals, were arrested in Edmonton, Alberta and are expected to be transferred to British Columbia by Monday.

Source: Reuters