The Calgary Police Service (CPS) has released photographs of approximately 15 individuals believed to be involved in a series of extortion incidents that have targeted members of the city's South Asian community, particularly those of Punjabi origin. The investigation has uncovered 49 extortion-related incidents since April 2025, including 19 shootings, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility that the suspects are operating as foot soldiers for the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang.
Police Seek Public's Help to Identify Suspects
In a public appeal, the CPS released images of the suspects and specifically requested assistance in locating Germanjeet Singh, who is wanted on warrants related to an extortion incident. Additionally, officers are seeking to identify suspects in two extortion cases that occurred in the communities of Cityscape and Saddle Ridge. Investigators believe that the suspects may be known in the community by different names and encountered under varying circumstances.
Extortion Campaign and Charges
According to Superintendent Jeff Bell of the CPS criminal operations and intelligence division, 16 individuals have been charged with a total of 56 offences in connection with the extortion campaign. Bell confirmed that none of the charged individuals are Canadian citizens. “We hope that by releasing these photos, community members can provide additional information to help advance our investigations,” Bell stated.
Possible Links to Lawrence Bishnoi Gang
The police have not ruled out the involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, a criminal organization based in India. Bell acknowledged that the CPS is monitoring developments in other parts of Canada, including Vancouver, where a recent trial involved allegations of links to the Bishnoi gang. “If we come across any evidence to suggest that, we will be working with our national security partners as they are considered a terrorist organisation,” he said.
FINTRAC Bulletin Warns of Coercion Campaign
The Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) issued a special bulletin detailing a sustained campaign of coercion. According to the bulletin, this activity typically involves “financially vulnerable, young male, Indian nationals in Canada on study permits” being used as foot soldiers by gangs to carry out targeted acts of violence against South Asian diaspora communities across Canada. The bulletin further warned that copycat actors and smaller criminal groups are exploiting the fearsome reputation of major gangs to amplify the impact of their own extortion demands.
Impact on the South Asian Community
The extortion cases have caused significant concern within Calgary's South Asian community, particularly among Punjabi residents. The CPS has urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigations. Authorities continue to work with national security partners to address the threat posed by transnational criminal organizations.
