Vancouver Reports First Extortion Cases; Authorities Investigate and Implement Measures to Combat Crime

Vancouver has reported its first known extortion cases, with police saying perpetrators are threatening residents and business owners with violence in exchange for money. The Vancouver Police Department said it is investigating four extortion files — the first such cases identified in the city. Const. Darren Wong said that the cases but said limited details could be shared as investigations remain at different stages. Police have executed search warrants, made arrests and are gathering further evidence to support charges. Authorities said the victims live in Vancouver but operate businesses in the Fraser Valley. Two of the investigations are being conducted in coordination with the Surrey Police Service and the B.C. Extortion Task Force. Police believe additional cases may exist and have urged victims to come forward. In neighbouring Surrey, police reported 53 extortion incidents so far this year, along with 11 related shootings and two arson cases. A total of 31 victims have been targeted, including 17 who were previously targeted. Surrey has been the region’s primary hotspot since the first cases emerged in November 2023. The Canada government has announced new measures to combat the crime, including deploying financial intelligence specialists to focus on extortion targeting businesses and households. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said authorities aim to disrupt criminal networks through enhanced financial tracking. The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada will work more closely with law enforcement and financial institutions, including banks, credit unions and cryptocurrency platforms, to improve information sharing and detect suspicious transactions linked to extortion. India is closely monitoring the escalating Iran-US tensions and is in constant contact with Indian nationals in Tehran. The US has increased its military presence in the Middle East, with military options reportedly under consideration amid stalled nuclear talks. Diplomatic efforts between Iran and the US have made little progress, raising international concerns over the situation. Get the latest stories delivered straight to your inbox.