Surrey Radio Station Targeted in Shooting
Police say a Surrey radio station was struck by gunfire late Monday in an incident linked to ongoing extortion cases affecting South Asian communities across Canada.
Swift 1200 AM, located on the 13000-block of 76 Avenue, reported that its front entrance was hit by bullets around 9 p.m. Although the shots damaged the station’s door, no one was injured. Surrey Police confirmed the gunfire caused the damage.
Case Transferred to Provincial Task Force
The investigation is now being led by B.C.’s newly formed provincial extortion task force, created on Sept. 17 to address a wave of violent crimes tied to extortion. The task force is focused on cases across the province, where threats and shootings have been used to target individuals and businesses.
Extortion Cases Rising in Surrey and Beyond
Just days before the task force launched, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke announced a $250,000 reward fund for information leading to convictions in extortion cases. Local police revealed they were investigating 44 active files, including 27 involving shootings.
The trend is not limited to Surrey. Last week, Abbotsford police launched their own task force after receiving 38 extortion-related reports since November 2023.
Community Impact
Swift 1200 AM provides multilingual news, talk shows, music, and community programming for South Asian listeners. Monday’s shooting highlights growing concerns about public safety and the impact of extortion crimes on cultural and community institutions.
Appeal for Information
Police are asking anyone who was in the area of the radio station between 8 p.m. Monday and 6 a.m. Tuesday to come forward. Tips can be directed to the provincial extortion line at 236-485-5149 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
