Surrey RCMP arrest two suspects tied to a violent extortion scheme targeting South Asian business owners. Investigation ongoing amid rising national concern.
Suspects Arrested Following Months-Long Probe
Two Surrey residents have been arrested in connection with a violent extortion scheme targeting South Asian Canadian business owners, the RCMP announced Thursday. The arrests mark a breakthrough in a high-profile investigation that has drawn widespread concern across British Columbia and beyond.
Threats Escalated to Gunfire and Arson
The investigation began in late 2023 after multiple business owners reported being threatened with demands for money. In several cases where victims refused to pay, they were met with acts of violence, including shootings and arson. While property was damaged, no injuries were reported. Police believe the incidents are part of a coordinated criminal network.
Charges Pending as Identities Withheld
RCMP officials have not yet released the names of the two suspects, citing pending charges. The individuals are expected to be formally charged with offences including arson and careless use of a firearm. Authorities confirm the arrests are part of a broader law enforcement effort involving Surrey RCMP, Abbotsford Police, and federal policing units.
Community Leaders Welcome Arrests, Demand Clarity
Satish Kumar, president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Temple and a vocal community figure, expressed cautious relief. Kumar was personally targeted with a $2 million extortion demand and has survived two separate shooting incidents. While he welcomed the arrests, he emphasized the need for transparency and continued police engagement. “People are scared. We need to know what’s being done to protect us,” he said.
Officials Push for Broader Accountability
Former B.C. solicitor general Kash Heed criticized the RCMP’s announcement as vague and insufficient. He questioned whether the suspects are linked to international criminal organizations like India’s Bishnoi gang or are part of a local syndicate. “We need clarity—this affects national security and community safety,” Heed said.
Law Enforcement Calls for Unified Approach
Chief Superintendent Duncan Pound, assistant district commander for the Lower Mainland RCMP, underscored the need for coordinated policing. He confirmed ongoing investigations and said the arrests are only the beginning. “These crimes cross municipal and even national borders. Cooperation is critical,” he said.
National Response Growing Amid Extortion Wave
The arrests in Surrey are the latest development in a troubling national trend. Since late 2023, extortion cases targeting South Asian business communities have surged in cities including Brampton, Edmonton, and Surrey. A federal-provincial task force was launched late last year to streamline investigations and improve intelligence sharing.
Government Urged to Take Stronger Action
In response to the crisis, B.C. Premier David Eby has called on the federal government to designate the Bishnoi gang—a group allegedly tied to the extortion wave—as a terrorist entity. Public Safety Minister Garry Begg has acknowledged possible links but noted that further evidence is needed to support the classification.
Awareness Campaign Encourages Victims to Speak Out
To combat underreporting, a $100,000 public awareness campaign has been launched by federal and provincial governments in partnership with Crime Stoppers. Authorities urge victims to preserve evidence and report threats immediately, warning that complying with demands only emboldens criminals.
