New provincial task force will target extortion threats

The Province of British Columbia has launched a specialized task force to address extortion threats impacting the South Asian community. This task force includes 40 members from various law enforcement agencies, including the B. C. RCMP and the Abbotsford Police Department, aimed at improving investigative coordination. Minister of Public Safety Nina Krieger noted the task force will operate under a unified command structure to enhance crime-fighting efforts against organized crime.

The Province has allocated $200,000 from the Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund to aid municipal police in their investigations of extortion cases. The public-awareness campaign funded by the Province encourages community members to report extortion threats, aiming to empower families and businesses. The campaign, developed with input from community members, will be available in English and Punjabi. From June to September 2025, the campaign generated over 4. 7 million views and increased reporting of extortion attempts.

This initiative underscores the government's commitment to ensuring safety and justice for vulnerable communities.