The fatal shooting of a Punjabi businessman in Surrey highlights rising gang-related violence and growing safety concerns in B.C.’s South Asian business circles.
Deadly Surrey Shooting Sparks Fears in Punjabi Business Community
A Businessman Fatally Shot in Broad Daylight
The city of Surrey, B.C., was rocked by a fatal shooting last week when 57-year-old businessman Satwinder Sharma was gunned down in his office near 84 Avenue and 128 Street. The incident, which occurred on June 11, has since raised serious alarm across Surrey’s thriving Punjabi business community. Sharma, known for his long-standing ties to local trade and cultural circles, died at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds.
RCMP Hands Investigation Over to Homicide Team
Following the incident, the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) took over the case, citing the possibility of organized criminal involvement. Authorities have not released suspect details publicly, though early indications suggest this was not a random act of violence. Police are reviewing surveillance footage and appealing to witnesses as the investigation unfolds.
Pattern of Violence Raises Community Alarm
This is not an isolated case. Over the past year, Surrey has witnessed a disturbing pattern of threats, arson, and now shootings targeting Punjabi business owners. Several sources have connected these events to extortion efforts by transnational gangs, particularly those with ties to India’s Lawrence Bishnoi syndicate. While the RCMP and Surrey Police Service have yet to confirm gang affiliations in Sharma’s killing, the timing and method mirror previous extortion-related attacks in the region.
Gang Influence Reaching Across Borders
British Columbia Premier David Eby recently announced that his government is seeking federal support to designate the Lawrence Bishnoi group as a terrorist organization. The goal is to enable stronger enforcement tools against what officials describe as “transnational violence” aimed at South Asian communities. Eby stressed that these are not isolated or petty crimes but “coordinated, sophisticated, and deeply harmful acts.”
Punjabi Business Owners Increasingly on Edge
In the aftermath of the shooting, community leaders and small business owners in Surrey have expressed fear and frustration. Many describe being pressured through anonymous calls demanding protection payments. Others are choosing to install additional surveillance systems or even shutter their storefronts early. One local shop owner told Maple News Wire, “People used to worry about theft. Now they worry about whether they’ll make it home alive.”
Calls for Community and Law Enforcement Action
As pressure mounts, public safety agencies are being urged to increase patrols and outreach in commercial districts with high South Asian business presence. Groups like the Surrey Crime Prevention Society have begun organizing neighborhood forums and Block Watch programs to educate residents on recognizing and reporting suspicious activity.
Meanwhile, leaders in the Punjabi-Canadian community are calling for unity and transparency. “We need to protect our people, but also make sure these criminals know we won’t be silent,” said one advocate during a recent vigil held outside Sharma’s office.
Final Thoughts
The targeted killing of Satwinder Sharma has ignited deep concern in Surrey’s Punjabi business sector, revealing the broader implications of organized crime infiltrating local commerce. As law enforcement steps up efforts, the spotlight remains on community resilience and governmental responsibility in ensuring safety for all residents—regardless of heritage or background.
