B.C. Authorities Continue Aggressive Action Against Extortion Networks Targeting South Asian Communities
SURREY, B.C. – Two foreign nationals already facing serious firearms charges in connection with an extortion-linked shooting in Surrey are now facing a series of additional criminal charges as police continue their crackdown on organized extortion networks operating across British Columbia.
The Surrey Police Service announced that prosecutors have approved several new charges against 22-year-old Damanjeet Singh and 30-year-old Pardaman Singh following an extensive investigation into a shooting incident that occurred on April 22, 2026.
The incident involved gunfire directed at a residence near King George Boulevard and 88 Avenue in Surrey. Although a resident was inside the home at the time of the shooting, no injuries were reported. Investigators later confirmed that the homeowner had previously received extortion threats before the attack took place.
The investigation was subsequently assigned to the Surrey Police Service’s specialized Extortion Response Team, which successfully identified a suspect vehicle and executed a search warrant at a Surrey residence, leading to the arrest of both accused individuals.
Initially, the pair were charged with discharging a firearm into a place while knowing or being reckless as to whether a person was present, as well as possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm without a licence.
Following further investigation, prosecutors have now approved additional charges against both men, including two counts of extortion each. They are also charged with possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm without authorization, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and occupying a vehicle while knowing a prohibited or restricted firearm was present.
Both accused remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in court later this month.
Police say the investigation remains active and continue to seek information from additional victims, witnesses and associates who may have relevant knowledge about the case.
The latest charges come amid an ongoing extortion crisis affecting several communities across British Columbia, particularly within South Asian business circles.
According to Surrey Police Service statistics, there have been 112 reported extortion-related incidents in Surrey so far in 2026, including 18 shootings and two arson attacks. Investigators have identified 61 victims, with 29 individuals targeted multiple times.
Authorities say extortion attempts often involve threats demanding large sums of money from business owners and residents, with violence frequently used as a means of intimidation when demands are not met.
In response to the growing threat, the City of Surrey established a $250,000 Surrey Extortion Reward Fund in September 2025. The fund remains active and offers rewards for information leading to arrests and convictions connected to extortion-related crimes.
British Columbia Public Safety officials acknowledge that while extortion incidents have shown signs of decline in recent months, the issue remains a significant public safety concern and continues to be a top enforcement priority.
Police are urging anyone with information related to extortion activities or the Surrey shooting investigation to come forward and assist investigators.
Law enforcement agencies across Canada continue to work collaboratively to identify and dismantle organized criminal networks responsible for extortion, violence, intimidation and other serious offences targeting communities and businesses.