Second Kabaddi Player Murdered in Punjab Within a Week
In a disturbing recurrence of violence in Punjab’s sporting circles, kabaddi player Gurwinder Singh was shot dead in the Samrala block of Ludhiana district. The murder comes less than a week after another national-level kabaddi player was killed in a similar attack.
According to police sources, the Lawrence Bishnoi gang has claimed responsibility for the killing through a social media post from a handle believed to be managed by Anmol Bishnoi, Lawrence Bishnoi’s brother. The post named Karan Madpur and Tej Chak as the shooters, while Hari Boxer and Arzoo Bishnoi allegedly took credit on behalf of the gang.
The victim, Gurwinder Singh, was reportedly ambushed near his residence late Monday evening. Police officials have begun an extensive investigation, suspecting that the murder could be linked to gang rivalry or extortion threats in the region.
Bishnoi Gang Expands Influence Across Punjab’s Sports Circles
The Bishnoi gang, led by incarcerated gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has increasingly extended its criminal footprint beyond major cities. Recent incidents suggest the gang’s involvement in targeted killings across northern India, often using social media platforms to claim responsibility and instill fear.
Police officers told local reporters that the gang’s message following Gurwinder’s killing was intended to “send a warning” to individuals who had allegedly crossed their network. Investigators are examining whether the crime has any connection to betting, personal enmity, or pending financial disputes in the kabaddi community.
Senior officials from the Ludhiana Police confirmed that surveillance footage from the area has been secured, and forensic teams are analyzing ballistic evidence recovered from the site. Authorities have also intensified patrols and intelligence monitoring in nearby districts to prevent further violence.
Earlier Murder of Tejpal Singh Raises Security Concerns
The latest killing comes just five days after the murder of national-level kabaddi player Tejpal Singh (26), who was brutally attacked and then shot in the chest in Ludhiana last Friday. Although no gang had claimed responsibility for Tejpal’s murder, police had earlier arrested two suspects, Gagandeep Singh and Harpreet Singh alias Honey, in connection with the case.
A senior officer stated that personal rivalry could have been the motive behind Tejpal’s death, but now investigators are exploring whether a wider gang connection exists between the two incidents.
Tejpal’s murder had already triggered concern within Punjab’s kabaddi community. Many players had expressed fear over rising threats, extortion calls, and lack of protection for athletes who often hail from rural areas with limited security arrangements.
Police Launch Crackdown as Gang Violence Escalates
Punjab Police have now launched a statewide crackdown on organized crime networks, particularly focusing on Bishnoi and Bambiha gangs, which have been rivals for years. The investigation teams are also coordinating with cybercrime units to trace the origin of the social media post that claimed responsibility for Gurwinder’s killing.
Officials said that Anmol Bishnoi, currently believed to be abroad, remains under close international watch. His name has appeared in multiple gang-related murder cases, and efforts are underway to seek assistance from Interpol for deeper coordination.
“Gurwinder’s killing appears to be part of a pattern of targeted executions meant to intimidate and establish dominance,” said a senior police officer. “We are pursuing multiple leads, and arrests will follow soon.”
Law enforcement agencies have also requested increased security for players and local tournaments, fearing possible retaliation or further attacks.
Sports Community Mourns and Demands Justice
The kabaddi community across Punjab has expressed shock and outrage over the killings. Former players and organizers have urged the government to provide better protection to athletes, especially those participating in regional leagues that attract large crowds and financial stakes.
Observers note that kabaddi tournaments in Punjab have, over the years, become a lucrative platform often influenced by illegal betting syndicates and gang financing. This overlap has blurred the line between sports and organized crime, making players potential targets.
As investigations continue, both killings have drawn national attention, highlighting the urgent need for reforms and strict policing to safeguard Punjab’s athletes from criminal networks.