CTV News speaks with alleged gunmen behind violent extortion attempts
CTV
South Asian business owners are going to extraordinary lengths to protect themselves and their families following a wave of violent extortion attempts across the county, including wearing bulletproof vests each time they leave their homes.
South Asian business owners are going to extraordinary lengths to protect themselves and their families following a wave of violent extortion attempts across the county, including wearing bulletproof vests each time they leave their homes.
West of Toronto in Peel Region, police say there have been 29 extortion attempts reported by members of the South Asian community. Usually they received a call, a WhatsApp message or a voice note demanding they hand over $1 million. Many of those who refused to comply have had armed gunmen open fire on their homes or businesses.
This week, Peel police announced that they had arrested five individuals who are allegedly connected to just some of the reported extortion attempts. Speaking during a packed press conference this week, Peel's chief of police acknowledged this is a national and international issue.
"There are similar trends that we've been seeing in Alberta and as well as lower mainland British Columbia, as well as in certain locations in the U.S.," Chief Nishan Duraiappah said.
CTV National News spoke with one South Asian business owner, who asked we hide his identity. For the purpose of our story we're calling him Eric.
Eric first received an extortion request in December. After he declined to pay, he became the target of gunmen on multiple occasions.
He arrived to our interview wearing a bulletproof jacket. As Eric lifted his sweater to show us, he shared that he doesn't leave his house without it. "For my peace of mind, for my family, I have to take some measures for my safety," he said.
