Unraveling the Killing of Sidhu Moose Wala: Gang Rivalries and the Rise of Punjab’s Underworld

Sidhu Moose Wala, a prominent Punjabi hip-hop artist known for his political lyrics and international influence, was murdered in May 2022 in Punjab, India. He was ambushed and shot 24 times while driving near his village. Goldy Brar, a gangster associated with Lawrence Bishnoi’s criminal syndicate, claimed responsibility for the murder. Despite over 30 arrests, no one has stood trial, and Brar remains at large, believed to be in Canada. The BBC managed to contact Brar, who justified the killing by accusing Moose Wala of supporting rival gang members and using political connections to evade justice. The conflict allegedly escalated after the murder of Bishnoi associate Vicky Middukhera, in which Moose Wala’s friend was implicated. Though Moose Wala denied involvement, Brar claimed the singer’s alliances with enemies made him a legitimate target. The case has spotlighted the influence of gangster culture in Punjab, particularly within the music industry. Since the killing, figures like Brar and Bishnoi have gained notoriety, increasing fear and extortion in the region. Brar admitted to extortion as a means of supporting their network, underscoring how Moose Wala’s fame inadvertently fueled gangster visibility and operations.