Two foreign nationals have been charged in connection with an extortion-related shooting at a Surrey home earlier this month, police announced Thursday.
Charges Filed in Whalley Shooting
Arman Singh, 21, and Simarjeet Singh, 22, are facing firearms-related charges after a residence in the Whalley neighbourhood was shot at on June 11. The shooting occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. near 96 Avenue and 133A Street.
Police were called shortly after 6 a.m. and found bullet holes in the home's exterior. There were people inside the home at the time, but no injuries were reported, according to Surrey Police Service.
Investigation and Arrests
Investigators identified suspects and searched two residences linked to them on June 12, with the assistance of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Lower Mainland District emergency response team. Four men were arrested during the searches.
Arman Singh and Simarjeet Singh remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in Surrey provincial court on June 29. Two other men who were arrested have not been charged and have not been publicly identified. They remain in the custody of border authorities.
CBSA Efforts Against Extortion
The CBSA said combating extortion is a priority and started “enhanced tracking” of immigration enforcement cases with possible links to extortion cases last August. As of June 18, the agency said 81 people had been deported from Canada, while another 139 were subject to removal orders that are in the process of being enforced.
In the CBSA’s Pacific Region, which includes B.C. and Yukon, officials have opened 150 files related to extortion-linked investigations, issued 69 removal orders, and deported 46 people.
Public Appeal for Information
On Thursday, Surrey police released photographs of Arman Singh and Simarjeet Singh and asked the public for information about their activities. “Any information provided by the public or associates can assist police in gathering information on the people and potential criminal networks involved in violent extortions,” Surrey police said in a statement.
Anyone with information about the men is asked to contact Surrey Police Service at 604-599-0502 or the Surrey extortion tip line at 236-485-5149. Anonymous tips can also be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Last fall, Surrey established a reward fund of $250,000 to people who can provide information on extortion suspects that lead to charges and convictions.
