Extortion Shadow Over Music Industry: B Praak Targeted in ₹10 Crore Threat Linked to Lawrence Bishnoi Gang

Delhi: Punjabi music star and Bollywood hitmaker B Praak has reportedly become the latest high-profile name to be dragged into the growing web of organised crime intimidation, after an alleged extortion threat demanding ₹10 crore surfaced, allegedly linked to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang. The incident has triggered alarm within the entertainment industry, already on edge due to a recent spike in gang-linked threats and shootings.

According to preliminary information, the threat did not reach B Praak directly but was routed through fellow singer Dilnoor, who received multiple calls from an international number earlier this month. The initial calls, received on January 5, went unanswered. When another call came the following afternoon and appeared suspicious, Dilnoor disconnected the line. Shortly thereafter, a voice message was delivered that escalated the matter into a serious criminal case.

The caller identified himself as Arju Bishnoi, believed to be the brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and suspected to be operating from outside India. The message allegedly demanded ₹10 crore, issuing a one-week deadline and warning of violent consequences if the demand was ignored. The language of the threat, investigators say, mirrors the intimidation style commonly associated with the Bishnoi network.

Disturbed by the message, Dilnoor immediately approached the Mohali police and submitted a written complaint on January 6. Senior police officials have confirmed that the matter is being investigated as a high-risk extortion attempt, with cyber forensics teams analysing call records, voice samples, and international routing details.

The timing of the threat has raised further concern for law enforcement agencies. The Bishnoi gang has been linked to a string of violent incidents in Delhi since the start of the year, including firing outside residential and commercial properties following extortion calls. In recent cases in Rohini, Paschim Vihar, and East Delhi, shots were fired shortly after victims allegedly refused to comply with monetary demands. Several suspects connected to these attacks were later arrested following police encounters.

Security experts note that celebrities and influential public figures are increasingly being targeted due to their visibility and perceived financial capacity. B Praak’s popularity across Punjabi and Hindi music circuits places him firmly in the category of high-value intimidation targets, amplifying the seriousness of the threat.