Concerns Rise Over Extortion Crimes in South Fraser River Area
Business owners and community members in the south of the Fraser River region are growing increasingly worried about the surge in extortion-related crimes, urging the RCMP to address it as a ‘crisis’ and urging immediate action from law enforcement and authorities.
Puneet Sandhar, Vice President of the South Asian Business Association of BC, is one of many voices criticizing the Mounties for not accurately acknowledging the severity of the situation. The issue came into the spotlight during a news conference held by the B.C. Extortion Task Force, where Assistant Commissioner John Brewer avoided labeling the situation a ‘crisis’. Subsequent criticism from Premier David Eby and a Surrey city councillor prompted Brewer to issue a public apology, although he still refrained from using the term ‘crisis’.
Sandhar expressed disappointment over the handling of the matter, highlighting the delay in addressing the issue and questioning whether the response would have been the same in a different community. She emphasized the fear and uncertainty among business owners, some of whom are considering relocating or concealing their success to avoid becoming targets of extortion.
The lack of trust in the police and the perceived tardiness in addressing the escalating situation have further fueled concerns within the community. Sandhar criticized the delayed action by the task force and government, emphasizing the need for concrete steps to tackle the crisis before it escalates further.
With numerous extortion cases reported in Surrey, Delta, and Abbotsford this year, the situation remains a pressing concern for residents and businesses. The mounting toll of victims and incidents underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to combat extortion-related crimes in the region.