Two years after the initial report of a series of extortion attempts in British Columbia, the threats, demands, and associated violence persist in the region. A recent shooting in South Surrey on November 8 was connected to extortion, as confirmed by the police. Over 100 extortion incidents had been reported in B.C. in 2025 by November 7.
The Bishnoi gang based in India has claimed responsibility for some of the shootings in Canada on social media. Authorities have mentioned evidence linking the Bishnoi gang to Indian government agents. Galib Bhayani, a criminology professor at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and former RCMP officer, highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement due to the international nature of these extortion schemes.
Bhayani emphasized the difficulties in investigating these crimes originating from India, citing inadequate information sharing between Canada and India. Tensions between the two countries escalated following allegations by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about Indian government involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. Subsequent diplomatic expulsions strained relations further.
RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme previously asserted strong evidence implicating the “highest levels” of the Indian government in orchestrating violence on Canadian soil. Despite attempts to share evidence with Indian authorities, cooperation was unsuccessful. Bhayani noted the lack of experience among local B.C. police forces in handling such complex international investigations.
To address the rise in extortion cases, a specialized RCMP-led task force was established in September, comprising 40 members from various law enforcement agencies. The RCMP reported an increase in extortion incidents in B.C. since the task force’s inception, partly due to enhanced reporting by the public.
At a recent town hall event on extortion, concerns were raised about the intricate nature of these investigations. Community members emphasized the need for transparency and regular updates on arrests, seizures, and disruptions related to extortion activities. Jinny Sims, a former MP and radio host, stressed the importance of local law enforcement taking action against perpetrators within the community. Bhayani advocated for increased communication and information sharing to bolster public trust in law enforcement efforts.