Extortion Fraud

Extortion threats targeting the South Asian community

In recent years, members of the South Asian community in Alberta, particularly in Edmonton and Calgary, have been targeted by extortion schemes involving threats, arson, and gun violence. These criminal activities have understandably led to concern from families and business owners, prompting co-ordinated investigations by local and national law enforcement.

What is extortion?

Extortion happens when someone unlawfully obtains money, property or services from a person, entity, or institution through coercion. Please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre for a list of different extortion fraud examples.

In Alberta, we are seeing similarities in the extortion threats in the victims targeted, tactics used, and ties to organized crime.

Victims targeted: South Asian business owners have been singled out, often receiving threats via social media demanding large sums of money.

Tactics used: Threats include violence and property damage. Several homes and businesses have been burned or shot at when victims refused to pay.

Organized crime links: Information from police agencies across Canada suggests many of these extortion attempts are connected to organized crime.

Are there active investigations in Calgary?

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) Robbery and Arson Unit is actively investigating two property damage-related shootings that occurred on Thursday, July 17 and Monday, July 21, 2025. These incidents may be connected to recent extortion attempts targeting members of the South Asian community.

What is the Calgary Police Service’s response?

We are committed to thoroughly investigating these cases and have reallocated internal resources to help identify and charge those responsible.
We are also working closely with our policing partners in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario and nationally through the RCMP to identify potential links between cases and similar extortion files nationwide.
We are holding townhalls and engaging with the community to share information as well as to encourage victims to come forward and share information.
An investigative team led by the CPS Robbery and Arson Unit is actively following-up on information already provided to the CPS.

What can people do to keep themselves, their families and communities safe from extortion frauds?

If you have been contacted by someone making extortion demands, we urge you to contact police immediately. Do NOT share personal or financial information over the phone or online, including social media.

Personal safety

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
Stay alert, especially when leaving places of worship, businesses, or community events.
Travel in groups whenever possible, particularly at night.

Home and business security

Install security cameras and adequate lighting.
Keep doors and windows locked, even when you're home.
Use safes for valuables and avoid displaying wealth publicly.

Online and phone safety

Be cautious of suspicious calls or messages demanding money.
Never share personal or financial information unless you're certain of the source.
Staying vigilant and informed is key to protecting yourself and your community.

How to share information:

If you believe you may have been a victim of an extortion threat, or may have information related to an ongoing investigation, please contact the Calgary Police Service or Crime Stoppers.

*Important reminder: All information and complaints related to extortion threats must be submitted through official police reporting channels. If you're unsure where to report, our Diversity Resource Team can help guide you to the appropriate contacts. However, please note that they are not able to receive or process complaints directly.

Calgary Police Service:

Calgary Police Service non-emergency line: 403-266-1234
CPS Extortion Fraud email address: extortion@calgarypolice.ca
- Please note this email address is not monitored 24/7.

In an emergency, please call 911 immediately