Surrey: The shootout at Kap's Cafe, which left the Indian community in shock and the cafe's ownership vowing to rebuild, has taken a new turn with banned Khalistani outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) reportedly claiming responsibility for the attack.

Harjit Singh Laddi, an alleged Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) operative, has purportedly claimed responsibility for the gunfire.

The stated reason behind the attack is said to be "offensive remarks" allegedly made by comedian Kapil Sharma in a show. These comments are reported to have mocked the attire and behaviour of Nihangs, a revered Sikh warrior sect.

Who is Harjit Singh Laddi?

Laddi is said to be a Germany-based operative of the Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and is listed as one of India's most wanted terrorists by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He is a prime accused in several violent incidents in India, including the murder of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vikas Prabhakar in Nangal, Punjab, in June 2024.

The NIA has also filed a chargesheet against Laddi in connection with various targeted killings and attacks, and a reward of Rs 10 lakh has been announced for information leading to his arrest. Laddi is reportedly a native of Garpadhana village in Nawanshahr district of Punjab.

‘Let’s stand firm against violence’

Kap's Cafe, owned by comedian Kapil Sharma, had only recently opened and was quickly gaining popularity among the Indian diaspora in Canada.

The cafe's owners have expressed their heartbreak and determination to remain a place of warmth and community, thanking Surrey Police and Delta Police Department for their prompt response. The Surrey Police is still investigating the matter.

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Screen grab of the Instagram story | thekapscafe_ on Instagram