The Current The extortion threats facing B.C’s South Asian community
Nov 25, 2025
Saurabh Sandhu, a CBC video journalist based in Surrey, sheds light on the alarming rise of violent extortion targeting the South Asian community. John Brewer, an RCMP Assistant Commissioner, discusses the police response and the complexities of the investigations. Criminologist Wade Deisman analyzes the motivations behind these crimes, linking them to broader social dynamics and political tensions between Canada and India. Together, they explore community fears, the reluctance of victims to speak out, and the urgent need for trust-building measures between the police and residents.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Resident Describes Repeated Shootings
- A Surrey resident described their street being shot up three times and kids living in fear.
- They demanded action from police and elected officials at a CBC town hall meeting.
Extortion Wave Has Intensified
- The extortion wave in B.C.'s Lower Mainland has accelerated into weekly shooting incidents targeting businesses and homes.
- Saurabh Sandhu reports police are investigating over 100 extortion-related cases and community anxiety is deepening.
Business Owner Faces Direct Death Threats
- Small-business owner Satish Kumar says extortion threats put his and his family's lives at risk.
- He reports direct threats claiming "They kill you," leaving him and his family terrified.