Peel’s Police Chief, Nishan Duraiappah, has addressed concerns among South Asian business owners about extortion activities during a briefing. He provided an update on the task force established in December to tackle extortion attempts directed at the South Asian community.
Chief Duraiappah noted that similar trends had been observed in Alberta, the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, and certain areas in the United States. He emphasized the collaborative efforts of their investigative team with other law enforcement agencies nationally and internationally to share vital information regarding these complex extortion schemes.
Highlighting a specific investigation, Chief Duraiappah revealed the arrest of four individuals and the confiscation of firearm ammunition, cash, numerous computers, and approximately 50 cellphones. These arrests were linked to two separate extortion incidents in Peel Region, along with related offenses. Additionally, a fifth individual was apprehended in connection with a distinct extortion case.
The proactive measures taken by Peel Police underscore their commitment to addressing extortion within the South Asian community with utmost seriousness.
