Another prominent business leader in Surrey has become the latest victim in a disturbing series of extortion-related violence plaguing the South Asian community. The home of insurance company owner Sandeep Ahuja was targeted with gunfire over the weekend, marking the latest in a string of similar attacks that have created widespread fear among local entrepreneurs.
Violent Attack at South Surrey Residence
The shooting occurred at a large mansion located on the 17000-block of 32nd Avenue in South Surrey's rural area. According to police reports, one individual working at the property sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident. Authorities confirmed the injury but remained unable to specify Wednesday whether the person was directly struck by gunfire.
Property records identify the targeted residence as belonging to Sandeep Ahuja, co-owner of Punjab Insurance Agency. Business profiles describe Ahuja as an ambitious entrepreneur and father of three who took a significant risk by launching his own insurance company after only two years in the industry. His business has since expanded to multiple cities across Canada.
Growing Extortion Crisis in Surrey
This weekend's violent incident represents the newest development in Surrey's escalating extortion crisis. Surrey police have recorded 94 extortion reports this year alone, with 43 of these cases involving shootings. The pattern of targeting successful business owners has created palpable anxiety throughout the local business community.
When contacted by phone Wednesday, Ahuja declined to comment on the attack, explaining that police had instructed him not to speak with media while the investigation continues.
Economic Impact Beyond Immediate Violence
The consequences of these extortion attempts extend far beyond the immediate violence. Puneet Sandhar, a lawyer with the South Asian Business Association of B.C., revealed that the organization has been fielding numerous calls from concerned business owners worried about their futures.
"I think one of the other things we're not acknowledging is the collateral damage. It's not just the safety and security aspect of it. There is also an economic damage that is happening," Sandhar stated in a recent CBC interview.
Sandhar provided a concrete example of the economic ripple effect: a local radio station has been losing advertising revenue because businesses fear that promoting their success might make them the next extortion target. "It's not only hurting the radio station who wants to use these ads, it's also hurting these businesses," she explained.
The situation has become sufficiently concerning that Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has requested additional police resources from provincial and federal governments. Last month, Locke called for 150 additional officers to address the extortion shootings, specifically asking for deployments from the RCMP and Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit during Surrey's ongoing transition from RCMP to municipal policing.
