Delhi Court Orders Charges Against Notorious Gangsters Under MCOCA

In a significant legal development, a Delhi court ordered the framing of charges against notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and 19 others under the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA). The court noted a prima facie case implicating the accused in organized crime and unlawful wealth accumulation.

Additional Sessions Judge Prashant Sharma led the proceedings, highlighting the array of evidence, including witness statements and confessions, that support the prosecution's allegations. The Delhi Police's special cell had initially registered an FIR in 2021 against the crime syndicate led by Sandeep, alias Kala Jathedi, pointing to a widespread network operating across states.

The court's 79-page ruling indicates that the gang used violence and intimidation for extortion, amassing a substantial cache of illegal arms. Formal charges will be framed on April 30, as the syndicate continues to pose a significant challenge to law enforcement, with operations extending to countries like Thailand, Canada, and the US.