SURREY, B.C. — The Surrey Police Service (SPS) has publicly voiced support for Premier David Eby’s call for new provincial mechanisms to address the ongoing extortion crisis affecting communities across British Columbia.
In a statement shared on social media, SPS said it is essential that community voices play a central role in shaping the police response to extortion, which has increasingly targeted businesses and residents, particularly within the South Asian community.
“SPS is supportive of Premier Eby’s call for new mechanisms to address the ongoing extortion crisis,” the service said. “It is imperative that the community is heard to help inform our police response.”
The statement comes amid heightened concern over a series of extortion-related threats and violent incidents reported in Surrey and other parts of the Lower Mainland. Police agencies and elected officials have described the situation as complex and evolving, requiring coordination between municipal, provincial, and federal authorities.
SPS Chief Constable Norm Lipinski has issued a detailed statement outlining the service’s position on provincial action, emphasizing the need for stronger tools, improved information-sharing, and trust-building with affected communities.
Premier Eby has recently urged broader action to combat organized crime-linked extortion, including new enforcement strategies and enhanced support for law enforcement agencies. The province has also indicated it is exploring legislative and operational changes aimed at disrupting extortion networks and protecting vulnerable communities.
Surrey Police have encouraged residents and business owners to report extortion attempts and cooperate with investigators, noting that community engagement is a critical component in preventing further escalation.
