Our Bureau
Calgary
Calgary police, in connection with a series of alleged extortion cases targeting members of the city’s South Asian community, released photographs of 15 Indian-origin men. Authorities said the investigation has uncovered dozens of incidents involving threats, intimidation and violence.
According to the Calgary Police Service, 16 individuals now face a combined total of 56 charges, with just one of the accused in custody. Investigators noted that most of the accused are Indian nationals of Punjabi origin, living in Canada on student or work permits. Police confirmed that none of those charged hold Canadian citizenship.
Investigators have linked the cases to 49 reported extortion incidents across Calgary, including 19 shootings. Police allege that criminal groups used threats and attacks on homes and vehicles to pressure victims into making payments.
Authorities said some suspects may have operated under aliases or false identities, making it more difficult to establish their connections and activities. Police released photographs of the accused in an effort to identify additional information about their associates, movements and possible aliases.
Superintendent Jeff Bell urged members of the public, particularly those in Calgary’s South Asian community, to come forward with information that could assist the investigation. He also expressed concern that most of the accused have been released on bail and are currently back in the community.
Police said the alleged incidents reflect a wider pattern of extortion reported in several Canadian cities with sizeable South Asian populations. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the full extent of the alleged network and identify any other individuals who may be connected to the cases.