Authorities in British Columbia are responding to growing concerns among the province's South Asian community, following a series of extortions and violent incidents, including homes and businesses being targeted with gunfire. The situation has prompted significant fear and disappointment within this community, as they face increasing threats and violence.
Recent reports indicate that there have been numerous threats made against individuals and businesses, with some of the incidents being proudly displayed on social media by the alleged perpetrators. However, law enforcement officials have noted a disappointing number of arrests relative to the volume of threats. Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger addressed these concerns during a news conference, acknowledging the frustration stemming from the lack of arrests but assuring the public that ongoing investigations are making headway.
Krieger declared these crimes targeting the South Asian community to be "deeply concerning," emphasizing that no individual, family, or business in the province should live under the threat of violence or extortion. To tackle the issue, she announced the formation of a provincial task force dedicated to investigating these threats. This newly established task force will be led by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and will comprise 40 members from various law enforcement agencies across British Columbia. Their goal is to curb the ongoing wave of extortion.
The task force aims to enhance the sharing of intelligence regarding extortion threats, thereby enabling a more effective investigation of organized crime activities. Crimes associated with extortion have emerged as a growing concern throughout the Lower Mainland, with one notable incident involving gunfire at a business in Surrey earlier this summer. This particular case is believed to have ties to extortion.
In July, a shocking video captured a shooter firing a handgun into Kap's Cafe, a popular Surrey restaurant linked to Indian comic and television host Kapil Sharma. This establishment was again targeted just a month later, raising alarm across the community. Some law enforcement agencies have linked these crimes to the India-based Lawrence Bishnoi gang, prompting calls from B.C. Premier David Eby and others to classify the gang as a terrorist organization.
To further assist investigations within Surrey, the local mayor announced a $250,000 reward fund for information leading to convictions related to extortions, with the police reporting that they are currently investigating 44 cases, including 27 involving gunfire. Assistant Commissioner John Brewer stated that the task force will bring dedicated resources, strategic intelligence, and tactical capabilities to address the violence and intimidation plaguing the community.
Brewer highlighted that while some similarities exist in the tactics used against victims, many incidents appear to originate from different individuals or crime groups. Authorities are thus treating each investigation as unique, requiring tailored methodologies to ensure effective results. He urged potential victims not to comply with extortion threats and to report any attempts to the police or through Crime Stoppers.
The province also announced additional funding to bolster investigations, with $200,000 from the federal Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund allocated to local police departments to pursue extortion cases. An additional $100,000 will support B.C. Crime Stoppers in their public awareness campaign aimed at encouraging individuals to report threats and assist law enforcement in identifying suspects.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities remain committed to addressing the concerns of the South Asian community and ensuring public safety. The task force's connection with local, regional, national law enforcement, and the Canadian Border Service Agency underscores the complex and international elements involved in these extortion crimes.
