Two shooters responsible for fatally shooting Khalistani supporter Hardeep Singh NIjjar have reportedly been traced by the Canadian law enforcement and are likely to be arrested soon. The news report published by Canadian Media outlet The Globe and Mail says that 2 shooters suspected to have fatally shot Nijjar are under police surveillance and are expected to be arrested by the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) in a matter of weeks. It also said that the suspects never left Canada and were being traced by the Police for months.
India and Canada’s diplomatic ties have been strenuous since Canadian PM Justin Trudeau suggested India’s involvement in the assassination. When asked for evidence, the Canadian Government failed to provide substance to the accusations. Canada’s claims were bolstered when the US uncovered a plot to assassinate Sikh for Justice leader and Khalistani Supporter Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The Globe and Mail also reported that according to sources, the Canadian Government will reveal the scope of India’s involvement in the case after the arrests.
India had denied any involvement in Nijjar’s death, insisting that Canada had not shared credible evidence to show Indian agents were behind the slaying. The accusation had an immediate impact on Indo-Canadian diplomatic relations. Canada shelved free-trade talks and a business trade mission to India, while India stripped 41 Canadian diplomats of their diplomatic protections in the country.
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was shot dead in a Gurudwara’s Parking lot in Surrey, Canada. An investigation revealed that it was a co-ordinated attack by at least six men in two vehicles.