Calgary Police Engage South Asian Community in Town Hall on Extortion Threats
In response to a series of alarming extortion cases that have instilled fear across the country, the Calgary Police Service (CPS) organized a crucial town hall meeting with members of the South Asian community. This event aimed to bridge the gap between law enforcement and affected groups, as authorities continue to grapple with a complex investigation that has yet to yield any meaningful arrests.
Community Gathering Addresses Growing Concerns
Approximately 70 individuals, predominantly from the Sikh community, convened at the Dashmesh Centre in northeast Calgary to hear directly from CPS and RCMP officials. The discussion centered on a disturbing trend of extortion-related incidents that have escalated into nearly a dozen shootings within the city. This pattern, often attributed to the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang from India, has been observed in major urban centers from Toronto to the West Coast, highlighting its widespread nature.
Extent of the Investigations and Violent Outcomes
According to CPS, there are currently 21 active blackmail cases under investigation in the Calgary region. Alarmingly, 11 of these cases have spiraled into shootings and other forms of violence, underscoring the severity of the situation. The police are collaborating with various law enforcement agencies, including the RCMP and counterparts in British Columbia, to identify and apprehend those responsible. Despite these efforts, no arrests have been made in Calgary to date, and the exact whereabouts of the suspects remain uncertain.
Asif Rashid, deputy chief of the Bureau of Investigative Support with CPS, emphasized the challenges in pinpointing the offenders' locations. He noted that investigations are being conducted at local, regional, and national levels to uncover commonalities and similarities. While the victims are based in Calgary, it is believed that some offenders may be operating locally within Canada, domestically, or even from overseas.
Official Presence and Historical Context
The town hall, held in a modest venue, saw attendance from several public officials, including Alberta Justice Minister Mickey Amery, reflecting the high-level concern over these crimes. Rashid informed attendees that the extortion problem in Calgary originated in the spring of 2025, when prominent businessmen were targeted with blackmail and violent threats. This prompted investigations by multiple agencies, including the RCMP.
Ryan Smart, an RCMP staff sergeant with Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams, described the investigative techniques being employed, such as undercover operations, wiretaps, gun tracing, and digital forensics. He characterized these cases as connected to organized crime, involving multiple individuals rather than a single perpetrator.
Practical Advice for Business Owners
During the meeting, a CPS member provided practical guidance to business operators on enhancing their security measures. Recommendations included installing CCTV cameras, implementing buzzers at entrances, ensuring proper lighting, and promptly reporting any incidents to police or through CrimeStoppers for those wishing to remain anonymous. This proactive approach aims to empower the community while aiding law enforcement efforts.
The town hall served as a vital platform for dialogue, underscoring the ongoing collaboration between authorities and the South Asian community to combat this troubling wave of extortion and violence.
