U.S. prosecutors have unveiled a sinister plot involving the attempted assassination of a prominent Sikh separatist leader in New York. The foiled scheme, which came to light just days after the killing of another activist, reveals a broader conspiracy intending to carry out a series of politically motivated murders in both the United States and Canada, as detailed in an unsealed indictment on Wednesday.

Elaborate Plans and Coordinated Targets

According to electronic communications and recorded audio and video calls obtained by U.S. law enforcement, organizers of the plot discussed their intentions last spring. The conspirators aimed not only to eliminate a Sikh activist in New York but also had plans to carry out murders in California and at least three other individuals in Canada. The overarching goal was to execute at least four people in the two countries by June 29, with plans for additional targets beyond that date.

Targeting Prominent Activists

The foiled assassination plot gained momentum following the tragic killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist exiled from India. Nijjar was shot and killed outside a cultural center in Surrey, British Columbia, on June 18. Disturbingly, one of the individuals charged with orchestrating the planned assassinations urged a hired hitman, Nikhil Gupta, to expedite the killing of another activist, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in the aftermath of Nijjar’s death.

In a recorded audio call, Gupta expressed a chilling urgency, stating, “We have so many targets. But the good news is this, the good news is this: Now no need to wait.” The revelation of multiple targets and the sense of immediacy showcased the calculated and extensive nature of the conspiracy.

Unveiling a Larger Conspiracy

The unsealed indictment exposes the existence of a more comprehensive conspiracy beyond the initial foiled assassination attempt. The conspirators’ intent to target political activists across North America, coupled with the seemingly systematic planning and coordination, underscores the gravity of the situation.

As U.S. prosecutors delve deeper into the investigation, the unfolding details shed light on the broader landscape of politically motivated violence planned for execution within a specific timeframe. The foiled plot not only prevents a single assassination but also disrupts a potentially devastating chain of events targeting individuals advocating for political causes.

The revelations raise concerns about the security of activists and political figures and emphasize the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in tackling coordinated and calculated conspiracies aimed at silencing dissenting voices.