Stockton Kabaddi Tournament Disrupted by Alleged Gang Threats

Organizers say athletes dropped out due to fears of retaliation from India-linked criminal groups.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 11:17am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a Kabaddi ball, its worn leather texture and surface details illuminated by harsh, direct flash lighting against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the gritty realities of gang violence disrupting a community event.A Kabaddi ball, the focus of a planned community tournament, becomes a symbol of the threats and fears that can disrupt immigrant communities.Stockton Today

An international Kabaddi tournament planned for Stockton, California was disrupted after athletes started withdrawing, citing fears of retaliation from criminal gangs with ties to India. The tournament organizer, Harsimran Singh, said players were unwilling to participate due to concerns for their personal safety and that of their families.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the growing influence of transnational criminal networks and their ability to disrupt community events and activities, even in the United States. It also raises concerns about the safety and security of immigrant communities who may be targeted by such groups.

The details

According to reports, Harsimran Singh had planned to bring 15,000 fans to Stockton for the Kabaddi tournament, which features a traditional Indian contact sport. However, athletes began dropping out, citing vague excuses. Singh said the players were "very afraid" and "didn't want to go against gangsters" or "compromise their own safety and their family's security."

  • The tournament was planned for last fall.
  • Athletes started withdrawing from the event shortly before it was scheduled to take place.

The players

Harsimran Singh

The organizer of the planned Kabaddi tournament in Stockton.

Stockton, California

The city where the Kabaddi tournament was scheduled to be held.

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What they’re saying

“The players were very afraid; if they got a call, they didn't want to go against gangsters. They were unwilling to play because they didn't want to compromise their own safety and their family's security.”

— Harsimran Singh, Tournament Organizer

What’s next

Authorities in Stockton and surrounding areas are investigating the alleged gang threats and working to ensure the safety of the local immigrant community.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the growing influence of transnational criminal networks and the need for stronger collaboration between law enforcement and immigrant communities to address such threats and ensure the safety of all residents.