Extortion crimes led to 'exodus' of residents, businesses from Peel Region: Brampton deputy mayor

Federal support against extortion crimes in Peel Region is being welcomed by residents, especially after several targeted business owners have moved away out of fear, said the deputy mayor of Brampton. 

“We're seeing an exodus of business owners in the region of Peel and the city of Brampton who are scared for their safety,” said Deputy Mayor Harkirat Singh.

Among those affected by extortion crimes are long-time Brampton residents and businesses that are the “backbone” of the community, he said. 

On Thursday, federal Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced dedicated financial intelligence experts who will support regions, such as Peel, to address extortion crimes targeting Canadian businesses and households.

“Behind every investigation is a person, a shop owner, a worker who depends on their job, a family that deserves to feel safe in their neighbourhood,” said Champagne. 

“To those who have been targeted, I want to say you're not alone. We stand with you, law enforcement stands with you and Canada stands with you.”

The country’s Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) will work closely with local law enforcement and prioritize receiving more timely and relevant financial intelligence to identify criminal networks and support investigations, Champagne said.

Singh and other community members say law enforcement is typically slow to investigate and address extortion crimes, but they’re hopeful that federal support and the “follow the money” tactic will "make a big dent” in cases.

“The crimes are happening very fast, but getting the evidence and gathering intelligence isn't happening as fast as the crimes themselves,” said Singh. 

He added that these crimes are especially “devastating” given how they impact entire families. 

The fear of being targeted by extortionists has become a common concern among his clients recently, said Dr. Maher Hussain, a psychiatrist with the South Asian Canadians Health & Social Services.

Two of his clients moved out of Peel Region — one to the U.S. and another back to India — after they received harassing calls, he said. 

“The police were also helping them, but they felt that help was not enough. They did not feel safe,” he said. 

Hussain says he feels “some hope” with the new federal announcement, adding a solution is “urgently needed” to help residents feel safe.