Police investigate shots fired at a Surrey, B.C., business, linking the incident to ongoing extortion threats targeting local South Asian businesses.
Surrey Business Targeted in Possible Extortion Attack
Authorities are investigating a shooting incident at a Surrey business on 80 Avenue between Saturday and Monday, which police suspect is linked to an ongoing extortion scheme affecting the South Asian community. No one was injured during the attack, Surrey Police Service (SPS) confirmed.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
Police reported that shots were fired at the entrance of Sidhu Travel Ltd., shattering glass doors and prompting a police response. Social media videos captured by journalist Sameer Kaushal show police tape surrounding the business as investigators canvassed the area for evidence.
Investigative Efforts Underway
SPS officers are collecting surveillance footage and seeking public assistance. Authorities are asking residents with dash-cam footage or relevant information to come forward to help identify the perpetrators.
Background on Extortion Threats
Since 2023, several South Asian-owned businesses in Surrey have reported financial extortion attempts. Some business owners have received threatening phone calls demanding large sums of money, often accompanied by threats of gun violence or arson. Last month, the RCMP announced arrests of two suspects connected to prior extortion cases.
Community Concerns and Previous Incidents
The latest shooting follows a similar attack at 1313 Car Wash, where the owner received a $50,000 extortion threat days prior. Business owners like Lovepreet Singh have voiced concerns about safety, saying, “Nobody’s safe… it can happen anywhere, in the middle of the night.”
Next Steps in the Investigation
SPS is treating the incident as a potential extortion-related crime. Investigators continue to gather evidence and interview local business owners, aiming to prevent further attacks and bring the responsible individuals to justice.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
