The Punjab Police says a Canada-based gangster has claimed responsibility for the fatal attack on the congress leader and Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala.
Sidhu Moose Wala was shot dead in Mansa district on Sunday, a day after the state government withdrew his security. The Bhagwant Mann government has withdrawn the security cover of 424 people as a part of the plan to crack down on VIP culture.
Moose Wala was attacked while driving in a jeep to the village Jawahar Ke in Punjab with two other men. His SUV was sprayed with bullets, and he was found slumped on his seat and bleeding heavily, according to the media reports. Doctors declared him brought dead at the hospital.
Punjab police claim the attack seems a part of the gang war, and a Canada-based gangster has claimed responsibility for the attack.
“Lawrence Bishnoi gang is involved in this murder. Lucky, member of the gang has taken responsibility from Canada,” Punjab DGP VK Bhawra told the media.
One Vicky Middukhera was killed last year, and this attack appeared to be in retaliation for Middukhera’s murder, Mr Bhawra said.
28-year-old Shubhdeep Singh Sidhu, popularly known by his stage name Sidhu Moose Wala, hailed from the Moose Wala village near Mansa. He had given several super hit songs in the last few years.
He was criticised for promoting gun culture in his songs and had also been booked for allegedly promoting violence through his song “Sanju”.
In December last year, the singer joined Congress and contested from Mansa seat in the recently held assembly elections. However, he lost to Aam Aadmi Party’s Dr Vijay Singla.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the news.
“Deeply shocked and saddened by the murder of promising Congress leader and talented artist, Sidhu Moosewala. My heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and fans from across the world,” Mr Gandhi tweeted.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said those involved in the attack “won’t be spared”.
“I am shocked and deeply saddened by the gruesome murder of Sidhu Moosewala. Nobody involved will be spared. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his fans worldwide. I appeal everyone to stay calm,” Mr Mann posted on Twitter.
