A British Columbia resident has been released on bail while contesting extradition to the U.S. for allegedly leading a drug trafficking network that brought large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine into Canada. Ravinder Singh Dhanda’s bail required sureties to post $700,000, electronic monitoring, and 24-hour house arrest until his extradition hearing. Dhanda, appearing in court in a dark suit and white shirt, remained calm during the hearing and gestured approval to his family members after the judge’s decision.
Dhanda, along with Jaskarn Baghri and Gurtej Smagh, was arrested in July as part of “Operation Hard Ball,” a collaborative effort between the RCMP and FBI. U.S. authorities claim Dhanda orchestrated the smuggling scheme, using long-haul trucks to transport over 430 kilograms of cocaine from Los Angeles to Canada between July 2023 and November 2024. Dhanda faces multiple charges, including drug distribution conspiracy, operating a criminal enterprise, and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, carrying a potential life sentence upon conviction in the U.S.
Court proceedings revealed that Dhanda allegedly dispatched an individual to the U.S., unknowingly a confidential informant, to coordinate drug shipments. Meetings between Dhanda and the informant at the Canada-U.S. border were monitored by law enforcement. Further discussions involving Baghri and Smagh reportedly took place in Surrey, focusing on future drug trafficking activities and extortions.
Despite the Crown’s argument that Dhanda posed a flight risk due to alleged access to resources and individuals for escape, the judge ruled him not a flight risk. The court noted Dhanda’s strong ties to Canada, lack of equity from targeted properties, and his long-standing residence in British Columbia. Addressing concerns about an alleged discussion of violence, the judge emphasized that Dhanda had not been charged with any violent crimes. Strict release conditions, including close police monitoring, were imposed on Dhanda.
In addition to house arrest and electronic monitoring, Dhanda must regularly report to a bail supervisor, limit phone use, refrain from weapon possession, and avoid contact with his co-accused. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 9. Gurtej Smagh was previously denied bail, while Jaskarn Baghri’s bail hearing is upcoming.