A 25-year-old man is currently facing multiple charges linked to a series of extortion-related shootings that occurred in Peel Region in late October. The incidents in question are under investigation by local police, who have provided detailed accounts of the events that transpired.
On October 26, at approximately 3 a.m., police allege that two suspects arrived at a residential property located near Old School Road and Creditview Road. Surveillance footage captured one of the suspects pouring an accelerant onto the driveway before igniting it, leading to a fire. Subsequently, both suspects reportedly discharged several rounds of gunfire at the residence before making their escape in a silver BMW SUV.
Following the initial incident, the same suspects reportedly targeted a business situated near Advance Boulevard and Dixie Road. Security camera video from this location reveals one of the individuals firing multiple rounds in the direction of the establishment before fleeing the scene once again.
Remarkably, investigators noted that no injuries were reported as a result of either shooting incident. This lack of injuries has been fortunate, given the severity of the actions taken by the suspects involved.
As a result of their investigation, law enforcement officials, in conjunction with the Caledon OPP Major Crime Unit, were able to apprehend 25-year-old Iqbal Bhagria on November 7. He faces several charges, including two counts of intentionally discharging a firearm recklessly, arson, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and uttering a forged document.
While Bhagria is in custody, police have indicated that their investigation is ongoing and are actively attempting to identify a second suspect who is believed to be connected to these alarming incidents. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case or the identity of the second suspect to come forward and assist with the investigation.
These events highlight the serious nature of gang-related activities and extortion attempts in the region, raising significant concerns among residents about safety and security. Police are committed to addressing such incidents swiftly in order to maintain public safety and restore confidence in the community.
As investigations proceed, both law enforcement and the community remain vigilant, underscoring the importance of collaboration in combating crime and ensuring that similar incidents do not occur in the future. Continuous efforts will be made to bring additional perpetrators to justice and ensure that individuals involved in criminal activities face appropriate consequences under the law.
