The government steps up to aid extortion victims in British Columbia with $1 million in funding for police support.
During a gathering attended by police officials and various levels of government representatives in Surrey, B.C., Premier David Eby announced the allocation of funds to assist victims of extortion. The financial support aims to facilitate direct communication between the police and victims, as well as offer assistance in creating safety plans for those affected.
Currently, there are 90 ongoing investigations related to extortion cases in the region. Premier Eby highlighted the significant efforts being made to combat these crimes, emphasizing that the task force dedicated to addressing extortion is the largest in the province’s history, marking a milestone as the first to involve the Canada Border Services Agency.
Expressing concern over the distress caused by extortion threats within the community, Premier Eby emphasized the importance of ensuring a sense of safety and security for residents in their homes, workplaces, and public spaces. Despite acknowledging the prevalent anxiety among residents, he reassured the public that progress is underway, with an extensive effort being put forth to address the issue.
The extortion incidents, primarily targeting individuals in the South Asian business community, have been linked to a series of reported shootings in Surrey and Abbotsford. Some of these crimes have been associated with the Lawrence Bishnoi crime group based in India.