Poilievre Ramps Up Pressure as Extortion Violence Escalates Nationwide
Canada’s escalating extortion crisis continues to dominate the national conversation, with Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre sharpening his criticism of Ottawa’s response while highlighting the severe impact on communities such as Surrey, Abbotsford and Calgary.
Emergency Debate Request Denied, But Concerns Intensify
Poilievre recently sought an emergency debate in the House of Commons, arguing that the wave of threats, shootings, and cross-country extortion networks demanded urgent attention.
The request was declined, with the Speaker noting the issue did not meet the procedural threshold required for immediate debate.
Despite the decision, the situation on the ground tells a different story — especially in Surrey.
Surrey’s Numbers Paint a Stark Picture
According to Surrey Police Service, the city has recorded 101 extortion-related files, 44 shootings, and 74 unique victims this year. Investigators continue to link incidents across the Lower Mainland and other provinces.
Poilievre, who met families affected by recent violence, has been vocal about the need for tougher sentencing, stronger self-defence provisions, and removing non-citizens tied to organized extortion networks.
Criticism of Prime Minister’s Lower Mainland Visit
The Opposition Leader also questioned why Prime Minister Mark Carney avoided Surrey during his recent Lower Mainland tour. Poilievre argued that residents deserved answers on what he describes as “soft-on-crime” policies and border lapses contributing to the crisis.
His visit included a stop in Surrey and Abbotsford, where he spoke with the family of Darshan Sahsi, who was shot and killed outside his home.
Growing Federal Actions — and Ongoing Pressure
The Canada Border Services Agency has already removed several individuals linked to the network and is investigating 78 foreign nationals. CBSA is also part of the BC Extortion Task Force, which includes Surrey Police, B.C. RCMP, CFSEU-BC, Abbotsford Police, Delta Police, Transit Police and other agencies.
In Ottawa, the federal government has introduced Bill C-14 (Bail and Sentencing Reform Act), now in second reading. The proposed law would impose consecutive sentences for violent offences such as extortion, auto theft, and arson — meaning offenders would serve penalties one after another, not at the same time.
Poilievre argues the measures don’t go far enough and continues pressing for mandatory minimum sentences for all forms of extortion, with higher penalties when firearms or organized crime are involved.
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