In the first week of 2026, a series of extortion-related shootings in Surrey and Delta have law enforcement on high alert for the year ahead.
In Surrey, gunfire damaged a home near 123 Street and 77A Avenue, with no injuries reported. Surrey Police Service (SPS) Sgt. Tige Pollock stated that the incident is likely connected to the ongoing extortion cases in the area.
Similarly, in Delta, shots were fired at a home on 84 Avenue and Brooke Road, also tied to an extortion investigation. Fortunately, no one was injured in this attack either.
In 2025, there were a total of 132 reported extortion cases in the region, with 49 involving shots fired and affecting 88 victims. Already this year, there have been at least five extortion incidents and six victims, including both individuals and businesses.
Both the SPS and Delta Police Department are actively investigating these cases, with efforts to collaborate and share intelligence for more successful arrests and charges. Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton emphasized the importance of not giving in to the demands of the criminals and instead contacting the authorities for help.
The victims, particularly from the South Asian community, are being targeted, and police warn against complacency as extortionists often return for more money. The B.C. Extortion Task Force remains vigilant in addressing these escalating crimes.
Extortionists often demand substantial sums ranging from tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, leading to repeat victimization. Additionally, there are concerns about copycat criminals taking advantage of the situation.
Police advise the public to save any communication received from potential extortionists as evidence and to report any suspicious activity promptly. Increased patrols are being conducted in areas with a high incidence of these crimes.
As investigations continue, anyone with information on extortion cases is urged to contact the police or Crime Stoppers. The fight against extortion in the region remains a top priority for law enforcement agencies in 2026.
Keyphrase: extortion-related shootings