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Five foreign nationals face charges after an RCMP investigation into extortion of British Columbia's South Asian community, linked to shootings and arsons in Langley and Surrey.
Five foreign nationals are in police custody and face a string of charges arising out of an RCMP investigation into the extortion of members of British Columbia's South Asian community, Langley RCMP announced. Supt. Harm Dosange, with the Langley RCMP, said the investigation began in June 2025 when owners of an auto dealership reached out to police.
Extortion Demands Followed by Shootings and Arsons
Dosange said the extortion demands were followed up by shootings and arsons in Langley and neighbouring Surrey, B.C. The violence connected to the demands prompted a sweeping police response that stretched beyond the province.
He said the project's investigators faced unprecedented obstacles in their work across Canada and internationally. The cross-border dimension of the case made the investigation unusually complex for the officers involved.
The five accused are in their 20s and face a variety of charges, including extortion, damaging property by fire or explosion, throwing an explosive substance, drug charges, and numerous firearms allegations. The range of charges reflects the seriousness of the conduct alleged by investigators.
Extortion Task Force Examines Possible Gang Links
Chief Supt. Duncan Pound, with B.C.'s extortion task force, said the accused's trial will hear whether the India-based Lawrence Bishnoi gang is involved. The question of gang affiliation is expected to be central to the case as it moves through the courts.
Pound cautioned, however, that police have seen cases where criminals claim they are part of a high-profile crime group as a way to make money. Such claims can exaggerate the reach and organization behind local extortion schemes, he said.
The investigation into extortion targeting the South Asian community has drawn attention across British Columbia, where business owners have reported pressure and threats. Police have urged victims to come forward as they continue to pursue those responsible.
The RCMP said the five accused remain in custody while the charges proceed through the justice system. The report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 2, 2026.
RCMP Extortion Langley Surrey Lawrence Bishnoi South Asian Community British Columbia
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