The number of active extortion investigations in Surrey has nearly tripled since early June, according to Surrey police.
Since launching a dedicated counter-extortion team in June, the Surrey Police Service (SPS) has seen cases grow from 10 to 26.
SPS Sergeant Tige Pollock said this increase does not show a sudden spike. Some reports cover incidents from earlier months. However, it suggests victims now feel safer reporting crimes to the police.
“There was a public forum by community members, the province funded a Crime Stoppers extortion tip line, and Surrey police created a new investigation team,” Pollock said.
“These steps help the public trust the police and feel comfortable coming forward.”
Several violent acts, including shootings, have been linked or suspected to be linked to extortion. These have unsettled the Lower Mainland, especially within the South Asian business community.
In June, an Abbotsford man with no criminal record was shot and killed in his Surrey office. This incident heightened fears about extortion-related violence.
Earlier this month, the RCMP arrested two Surrey residents tied to firearms, arson, and extortion cases. However, no charges have been filed yet.
This has caused frustration among some residents, who compare it to Alberta and Ontario, where many extortion suspects have been charged.
In Edmonton, police held a town hall meeting recently, warning of a “second wave” of extortion cases. The city fears a resurgence after arrests last year.
Interim Police Chief Warren Driechel said police stopped the attacks after arresting several suspects linked to 40 extortion and arson cases. These targeted wealthy South Asian homebuilders and business owners.
But since May, six new cases have come to light, suggesting the attacks might be returning and more victims may be at risk.
To fight this crime, the RCMP formed the National Coordination and Support Team (NCST) in 2024. This team helps investigations across Canada.
Superintendent Adam MacIntosh, head of the NCST, stressed the need for victims to report every extortion attempt to the police. He warned strongly against paying criminals.
“The fact extortions continue means people are paying. Organized crime groups make money this way,” MacIntosh said.
“They would stop if it wasn’t profitable. It’s a scary position to be in, facing threats. But victims need to overcome fear and report what is happening.”
Surrey police encourage anyone affected by extortion or with information to contact law enforcement immediately.
