Vancouver sees its first extortion cases as Ottawa launches national measures to fight rising threats against residents and businesses.
Vancouver Confronts Its First Extortion Investigations
Vancouver has entered a troubling new chapter in local crime. For the first time, the Vancouver Police Department (VPD) confirmed that it is investigating four extortion cases in the city. Residents and businesses are being threatened with violence unless they pay up — a trend previously seen more in Surrey, Delta, and Abbotsford.
“These four are the first we are aware of in Vancouver,” Constable Darren Wong told CBC News.
Details remain scarce. The VPD has not revealed whether these incidents involved shootings, which have been part of extortion cases elsewhere, nor exactly when the crimes occurred. However, police confirmed that search warrants have been executed, arrests have been made, and further evidence is being collected.
Victims Spanning Vancouver and the Fraser Valley
The cases involve Vancouver residents who own businesses in the Fraser Valley. In two of the investigations, the VPD is collaborating with the Surrey Police Service and the B.C. Extortion Task Force. Authorities warn that other victims may exist and are urging anyone targeted to come forward.
“Residents should remain vigilant and report any extortion activity,” said Wong.
Surrey Remains Ground Zero
While Vancouver is seeing its first cases, Surrey continues to experience a surge. Since November 2023, the city has recorded 53 extortion incidents this year alone, alongside 11 related shootings and two arsons. Thirty-one victims have been targeted, including 17 previously threatened.
Police and multiple levels of government have been scrambling to respond to this growing problem, emphasizing both prevention and enforcement.
Ottawa Announces New Measures
On Thursday, the federal government unveiled a plan to tackle extortion nationwide. Dedicated financial intelligence experts will work to track criminal networks and support local investigations.
“Our message to criminals is clear: Enough is enough,” said Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne from Mississauga, Ont. “We’re going to make their life miserable.”
The strategy includes enhanced collaboration between FINTRAC, Canadian banks, credit unions, financial service providers, and cryptocurrency platforms to detect extortion transactions. Intelligence reports will also highlight methods used to launder illicit proceeds.
Surrey police welcomed the announcement. “Any additional tools, resources, or agency involvement to combat extortion and related crimes are welcome,” said Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton.
Prime Minister Visits Surrey
Prime Minister Mark Carney visited Surrey on Thursday to meet with local law enforcement. Discussions focused on national measures, including 80 Criminal Code amendments, tightened immigration laws to prevent suspects from claiming asylum, and expanded support for victims.
“We are addressing this issue collectively with law enforcement, prosecutors, municipalities, provinces, and the federal government,” Carney said.
Vancouver’s emergence in the extortion landscape serves as a stark reminder that no city is immune. With federal action and inter-agency cooperation, authorities hope to curb the rise of this crime before it spreads further.
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