Two Indian nationals from Punjab were arrested in Canada in connection with a shooting incident tied to an alleged extortion scheme targeting the South Asian community in British Columbia. Concerns are rising among law enforcement agencies about criminal networks driven by gangs. Vulnerable youth on study permits are reportedly being recruited by criminal syndicates for violent acts and intimidation campaigns, as warned by Canada’s financial intelligence agency, FINTRAC.
The Bishnoi and Bambiha gangs were highlighted in an advisory for their involvement in such activities, with the Bishnoi gang being formally designated as a terrorist entity in 2024 by Canadian authorities. The arrests followed an investigation by the Surrey Police Service into gunfire at a residence in Surrey on April 22. Although no injuries were reported, evidence of bullets hitting a home and a parked vehicle was found at the scene.
The Extortion Response Team took over the probe and conducted a coordinated raid on a Surrey property after tracking down a suspect vehicle. The operation involved multiple agencies, including the Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team and the Canada Border Services Agency. The arrested individuals, 22-year-old Damanjeet Singh and 30-year-old Pardaman Singh, both foreign nationals residing in Canada, face charges related to firing a weapon into an occupied place and unlawful possession of restricted firearms.
Authorities allege that the accused were part of a broader pattern of violent intimidation and extortion activities affecting the South Asian diaspora in Canada. The suspects are currently in custody awaiting court proceedings scheduled for later this month and early June. Canadian officials suspect potential involvement of more individuals connected to organized criminal networks.
A recent report by Khalsa Vox highlighted the increasing extortion threats faced by Punjabi builders in Vancouver, indicating the spread of organized crime beyond specific groups or areas. What initially started as isolated incidents in Surrey City, involving cash demands through phone calls, social media, or letters, has evolved into a larger issue impacting communities and eroding trust, growth, and national strength.
