Police Report Sharp Rise in Violence
The Surrey Police Service (SPS) says the city has recorded 33 extortion-related shootings and 59 other extortion reports so far this year — a stark reminder of how widespread the crisis has become.
Police Chief Const. Norm Lipinski told the Surrey Police Board on October 9 that tackling extortion remains “one of the top priorities” for the force.
Deputy Chief Michael Procyk updated the board on recent arrests, calling the past week “busy and full of significant successes.”
Multiple Arrests and Charges Filed
Among the latest arrests:
- Harmanjot Brar (25) and Hardilpreet Singh (23), charged with arson and possession of stolen property after a vehicle fire on Oct. 5.
- Abjeet Kingra (26) and Vikram Sharma (24), charged with discharge of a firearm with intent and arson for offences dating back to 2024.
- Mandeep Gidda (23), Nirmaandeep Cheema (20), and Arundeep Singh (26), charged in connection with a March 27 shooting at a Surrey home.
Procyk declined to specify the citizenship status of those charged, noting privacy restrictions under the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), but confirmed investigators are “fully aware of the status of all individuals.”
Task Force Expands Collaboration
SPS has now deployed its full complement of officers to the B.C. Joint Extortion Task Force, which includes 40 officers from agencies such as the RCMP, CFSEU-BC, Abbotsford Police, Delta Police, Metro Vancouver Transit Police, and CBSA.
Procyk said the joint effort focuses on community assurance and deterrence while pushing forward multiple investigations.
“We’re evolving one holistic plan to address the extortion problem,” he told the board.
SPS spokesperson Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton confirmed that as of October 1, 15 SPS officers and civilian staff are assigned directly to the task force.
Community Safety Remains the Priority
Board chair Xwopokton (Harley Chappell) asked whether any of those arrested are linked to other active extortion files in Surrey. Procyk said potential connections exist but could not yet be confirmed.
Police officials emphasized ongoing coordination between SPS investigative units and community policing teams to curb violence and reassure residents shaken by months of shootings, arsons and threats.
