Emergency Responders Attend Fire at Under-Construction Home in West Edmonton on January 8, Possibly Connected to Recognized Extortion Plot, According to Police (Photo by David Bajer/CBC)
A criminal network based in India is reportedly behind a spate of extortion targeting home builders in Edmonton's South Asian community, according to local authorities. The police revealed on Thursday that 27 incidents, including five extortion, 15 arson, and seven firearms offences, are connected to a scheme orchestrated in India but carried out by individuals in Edmonton.
Six young men have been apprehended and charged in connection with the series of crimes. However, one suspect has managed to escape the country, as confirmed by Edmonton Police Service Staff Sgt. Dave Paton during a news conference. The extortion activities are taking place through the messaging platform WhatsApp, with victims receiving communication demanding compensation to ensure their safety.
Staff Sgt. Paton disclosed that the requested amounts of money are "significant," but specific figures were not provided. While many victims are identified as home builders, the exact number of individuals or companies targeted remains undisclosed. The criminals appear to target individuals they perceive as affluent and capable of providing funds, particularly focusing on the local South Asian community, with most victims being of Indian origin.
Edmonton police are actively collaborating with various law enforcement agencies nationwide on the investigation. However, investigators currently do not believe there is a direct link to similar extortion incidents in Ontario and British Columbia. Recent incidents include a house fire in Beaumont and a drive-by shooting in the Cy Becker neighbourhood, with no reported injuries in the shootings but an injured firefighter in one of the arsons.
Despite the arrest of six suspects in early January, extortion events have persisted. Edmonton Police Service is urging individuals who have received threats, including those who have complied with the demands, and anyone with information on the crimes to come forward.
To address the concerns within the South Asian community, EPS is organizing a town hall meeting. Puneet Manchanda, president of the Council of India Societies of Edmonton, expressed shock at the targeted attacks, emphasizing the need for unity against such activities. He trusts that the police investigation is on the right track and encourages those affected to cooperate with law enforcement.
The Canadian Home Builders' Association - Edmonton Region is also advising its members to report any incidents to the police promptly. While the association did not grant an interview request, it shared a notice with members, advising them to review and reinforce on-site security measures and stay vigilant for unfamiliar individuals or vehicles near construction sites.
