Mayor Brenda Locke of Surrey is urging the federal government to take immediate action in response to the rising number of extortion cases plaguing the city. In a letter addressed to Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree, Locke proposed the appointment of a national extortion commissioner to coordinate efforts among law enforcement, government officials, experts, and community leaders nationwide.
“This unprecedented surge in extortion has left our residents and businesses living in fear,” Locke stated, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention to address the escalating violence.
Statistics revealed by the mayor’s office indicate that reported extortion incidents across Canada have reached nearly 1,500 since 2023. Within Surrey alone, there have been 34 recorded cases, including eight confirmed shootings, in the first three weeks of 2026.
Expressing concern over the inadequacy of existing laws to combat extortion effectively, Locke emphasized the necessity of empowering a national extortion commissioner to address gaps in legal frameworks and prevent further crimes from occurring.
Locke is set to present her recommendations at an upcoming federal meeting in Ottawa, aiming to garner support for a comprehensive response to the pressing issue of extortion in the country.