RCMP provide update on extortion threats investigation

The RCMP has provided an update on its ongoing investigation into extortion threats targetting the South Asian community.

Two suspects were arrested Thursday for careless discharge of a firearm and arson, in relation to incidents last year in Surrey.

Mounties began investigating a series of targetted financial extortions in late 2023.

Victims have reported receiving threats, demanding large sums of money, sometimes followed by acts of violence or property damage if demands weren’t met.

Last month, police in Surrey had formed a special investigative team to look into extortion threats after receiving 10 reports of such incidents in the last six months.

Since then, the B.C. government announced launching a public awareness campaign to address the threats.

The campaign, coming at a cost of $100,000, is set to share information about recognizing and reporting extortion threats, which the government believes will help individuals, business owners, and families stay safe and informed.

The announcement of the campaign comes after Premier David Eby said he would write to Prime Minister Mark Carney to ask that the India-based Lawrence Bishnoi gang be given the terrorist designation “to enable police to be able to use the necessary tools to investigate.”

The RCMP previously stated that it has linked the Lawrence Bishnoi gang to extortion and other crimes against South Asian community members in Alberta, Ontario, and B.C.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said she had also written to Carney with the same request to protect her city, where many residents have been targeted.

Mounties will hold a media conference outside the BC RCMP Divisional Headquarters in Surrey at 1:30 p.m.

You can watch The Leader Spirit 24/7 live or listen live to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver to keep up to date with this story. You can also subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.

—With files from Charlie Carey