Abbotsford police start extortion task force

Police in Abbotsford have created a new task force to tackle the extortion crisis in the city.

After multiple South Asian business owners have been threatened, the Abbotsford Police Department (APD) has launched “Operation Community Shield,” an internal extortion task force.

By building the task force, the APD says it is addressing a recent increase in extortion events this month, which involved shootings and arson.

Operation Community Shield consists of experienced officers reassigned from the APD.

The task force will follow proactive violence suppression strategies and pursue targeted investigations, all aimed at safeguarding public safety.

Additionally, it will work together with federal and provincial officials — including the province’s extortion task force, which was announced last week.

“Two of our officers will be embedded within the provincial extortion task force, ensuring Abbotsford has a strong voice in this broader effort,” said Colin Watson, APD Chief Constable.

The APD says it is currently investigating 38 extortion attempts between November 2023 and August 2025.

Even though most cases have involved non-violent methods, such as threatening letters, phone calls, or text messages, Watson says police are taking the situation very seriously.

“These events, and others throughout the Lower Mainland and beyond, have shaken our sense of security,” said Watson.

“We share the concerns we have heard and are fully committed to ensuring public safety in our community.”

Similar extortion incidents that occurred in the Lower Mainland were predominantly reported in Surrey, with the Surrey police investigating at least 44 cases this year alone.

Officials said they have reasons to believe that at least some of the incidents are tied to the India-based Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

Police have called for the hate group to receive a terror designation under Canadian law.

In addition to the province’s extortion task force, Surrey mayor Brenda Locke announced $250,000 in rewards for anyone with information on the crisis, leading to a conviction.

“This is a community concern, not just a police concern. We’re committed to transparency and will keep the public informed as best we can as investigations progress,” said Watson.

With files from Srushti Gangdev.