Kapil Sharma’s Surrey café hit by gunfire; Khalistani extremist reportedly claims responsibility. Police investigate motive and community impact.
Celebrity Café Targeted in Late-Night Shooting
Gunfire struck Kap’s Café, a newly opened restaurant owned by Indian comedian Kapil Sharma, on Wednesday night in Surrey, British Columbia. Multiple bullets hit the building and adjacent residences, triggering an alarm in the local community. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Popular Restaurant Opened Just Days Before Attack
The café, launched over the weekend by Sharma and his wife, Ginni Chatrath, had already become a favoured gathering spot, especially among members of the Indian diaspora. Located in central Surrey, the venue had received a warm reception, with bustling crowds and active social media buzz highlighting its debut.
Babbar Khalsa Operative Allegedly Claims Responsibility
The attack has reportedly been claimed by Harjit Singh Laddi, a known operative of the banned Khalistani extremist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Laddi, who is on India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) most-wanted list, allegedly said the firing was in retaliation for comments attributed to Sharma, though the exact nature of those remarks remains unclear. Canadian authorities have not yet verified the claim.
Police Launch Comprehensive Investigation
Surrey police confirmed that multiple rounds were fired at the property. Bullet holes were found on the café’s front and nearby homes. Officers have recovered spent shell casings and are reviewing CCTV footage from the vicinity. Forensic experts are now analyzing the scene, and law enforcement has sealed off the immediate area to secure evidence.
No Statement Yet from Kapil Sharma
As of Thursday morning, Kapil Sharma has not released a public statement regarding the incident. Known internationally for his comedy shows and live performances, Sharma has kept a relatively low political profile, making the reported motive particularly puzzling. His team has yet to respond to requests for comment.
Broader Pattern of Threats in the South Asian Business Community
The incident echoes a troubling pattern of violence and extortion targeting South Asian Canadian business owners. Earlier this month, RCMP announced the arrest of two suspects linked to a string of such crimes dating back to late 2023. Victims had reported threats, gunfire, and arson when extortion demands went unmet.
One prominent case involved Satish Kumar, a local community leader and business owner, who received a $2 million extortion threat and was later targeted in two shooting incidents. Kumar has since led public forums in Surrey to raise awareness and call for stronger protection measures.
Community Demands Answers and Action
While no arrests have been made in the café attack, police have assured the public that all leads are being actively pursued. Investigators are exploring whether the incident is part of an organized campaign of intimidation linked to pro-Khalistan extremist networks abroad.
Local residents and community leaders have expressed concern and are calling for heightened security, particularly for public figures and business owners of South Asian descent.
Surrey News will continue to monitor developments as the investigation progresses.
