British Columbia authorities are responding to a surge in extortion attempts targeting businesses and individuals, particularly within South Asian communities in Surrey, Delta, and Abbotsford. RCMP Assistant Commissioner John Brewer stated police are “actively hunting” those responsible and urged the public not to intervene directly.
Rising Extortion Cases in B.C.
The RCMP reported 35 suspected extortion cases in Surrey alone as of Tuesday, January 20, 2026. This follows an incident on Saturday where individuals targeted in an extortion attempt reportedly shot back. In 2025, Surrey police recorded a total of 132 extortion attempts, 49 of which involved shootings.
When questioned about public safety in Surrey, Assistant Commissioner Brewer acknowledged the increase in shootings but stated, “There’s not a crisis,” emphasizing that the toxic drug crisis remains a more significant concern. He affirmed that police are responding to every reported extortion attempt.
The task force, established on September 17, 2025, has worked on 32 files from across the Lower Mainland. They have secured 100 judicial authorizations, approved charges against seven individuals (some Canadian, some not), and initiated investigations into 111 foreign nationals potentially inadmissible to Canada under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. To date, nine individuals have been removed from Canada.
Authorities have collected over 1,000 exhibits and hundreds of hours of CCTV footage as part of their ongoing investigations. Assistant Commissioner Brewer stated that investigations are progressing to hold those responsible accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are most affected by these extortion attempts?
Surrey, Delta, and Abbotsford have been disproportionately affected by the extortion attempts, with cases primarily targeting South Asian communities.
How has the provincial task force been involved?
Since September 17, 2025, the task force has worked on 32 files, obtained 100 judicial authorizations, and investigated 111 foreign nationals for potential inadmissibility to Canada.
What is the RCMP’s current approach to these cases?
The RCMP is “actively hunting” those involved in extortion and is responding to every reported attempt, aiming to bring perpetrators before the courts or initiate deportation proceedings.
As investigations continue, what steps do you think will be most effective in deterring future extortion attempts and restoring a sense of security within affected communities?
