Gunshots Fired at Kapil Sharma’s Cafe in Canada, Khalistani Terrorist Harjeet Singh Laddi Claims Responsibility

Kap’s Cafe, a new Surrey restaurant owned by Indian comedian Kapil Sharma, was targeted in a shooting attack early Thursday morning. Gunshots were fired at the building at approximately 1:50 am local time. Several employees were present at the cafe, but none were injured.

Surrey Police reacted swiftly, cordoned off the site, and started an investigation. Bullet holes were visible in the cafe’s windows. A video on social media indicates a man shooting from within a car at the building.

Khalistani Terrorist Harjeet Singh Laddi Claims Attack

Harjeet Singh Laddi, a self-proclaimed Khalistani terrorist linked to Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), has taken responsibility for the attack. Laddi is among India’s top 10 most wanted terrorists and is featured on the National Investigation Agency’s (NIA) list. A reward of Rs 10 lakh was previously issued for his arrest in the case of the 2024 Punjab assassination of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Vikas Prabhakar.

Laddi reportedly quoted words spoken by Kapil Sharma as the reason for the attack, although Canadian authorities have not confirmed this to be the case. Surrey Police stated that the case remains in its beginning stages, and possible motives are being investigated.

Kap’s Cafe Issues Statement

Kap’s Cafe released a statement verifying the incident. “We are coming to terms with this shock, but we are not giving up. We opened Kap’s Cafe with visions of creating warmth and community. To have violence cross over that dream is heartbreaking,” the statement read.

The coffee shop, which opened only last week, has received a warm reception, even among the Indian diaspora in Canada. Famous for pastel-colored interiors and specialty coffees and desserts, it became a hit in Surrey very soon.

Kapil Sharma Still to Comment

Kapil Sharma has not commented on the incident until Thursday. The comedian, who hosts television shows in India, had posted photos from the soft launch of the cafe on Instagram, appreciating the reception by fans. His wife, Ginni Chatrath, was also there for the opening.

Surrey Police indicated that links to other attacks are being considered. Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton added, “We are at the beginning of the investigation. Once we know motive and context, we will provide updates.”

The assault has raised alarm regarding intensifying threats associated with Khalistani groups operating overseas.