B.C. Premier Calls for Terrorist Designation to Combat Extortion Targeting South Asian Businesses

British Columbia Premier David Eby is requesting that the federal government designate the Lawrence Bishnoi group as a terrorist organization. This move is intended to assist law enforcement in addressing extortion cases that are targeting South Asian businesses. The premier's call for action comes amid a surge of extortion threats that have particularly affected the Sikh community across Canada.

Premier Eby stated that there are allegations of Indian gangs operating within the province and elsewhere, using intimidation and extortion against business owners. He emphasized that he would be writing to the Prime Minister to request the terrorist designation for the Lawrence Bishnoi group, which has reportedly claimed involvement in these activities.

The premier's intervention follows community pressure in Surrey, where the police service recently established an Extortion Investigations Team. The team was formed in response to numerous reports of extortion targeting individuals and businesses within the South Asian community. These reports involve demands for money, often communicated through letters, phone calls, or social media, accompanied by threats of violence.

Public Safety Minister Garry Begg attended a public safety forum in Surrey where business owners expressed their concerns about facing threats demanding substantial sums of money. Premier Eby highlighted the seriousness of the situation, emphasizing its impact on public confidence in the justice system, democracy, and community safety. He noted that the activity erodes public trust in the rule of law and is a major concern for the people of Surrey.

Police forces in at least six Canadian cities are currently investigating extortion cases targeting the South Asian community, particularly those of Indian origin. The RCMP has identified the Bishnoi gang as potentially involved in violent crimes on Canadian soil, contributing to diplomatic tensions between Canada and India. The RCMP has also stated that organized crime elements, specifically the Bishnoi group, have been involved. Premier Eby believes that the current situation warrants additional tools for law enforcement to combat transnational organized crime, which he views as more akin to terrorism than traditional crime.