Global News Calgary: Breakthrough in South Asian Community Extortion Investigation
A 21-year-old Calgary man, Jaskaran Singh, has been charged following a traffic stop that yielded crucial evidence in an ongoing extortion investigation impacting members of Calgary’s South Asian community, according to the Calgary Police Service (CPS). This marks a significant development in a case that has been causing concern within the community.
Traffic Stop Leads to Arrest
On March 7th, CPS officers conducted a traffic stop in northeast Calgary. The vehicle matched one linked to an extortion-related shooting that occurred on March 4th in the 8000 block of Saddleridge Drive N.E. The vehicle was seized, and investigators meticulously documented evidence over the following weeks. This evidence, combined with information from previous incidents, helped establish connections between suspects, vehicles, and a series of shootings.
Second Arrest This Week
Jaskaran Singh faces charges of discharging a firearm with intent. His arrest is directly linked to the ongoing South Asian extortion investigation. This arrest follows closely on the heels of another charge laid earlier this week, with Rana Cheema, 45, being charged with extortion and uttering threats on April 1st. “This is a significant win for our investigators and for the community,” stated Supt. Jeff Bell, emphasizing the CPS’s commitment to pursuing those responsible.
Growing Concern Over Extortion Targeting South Asian Community
Extortion attempts targeting members of the South Asian community in Western Canada have been escalating over the past two years. Police in both Alberta and British Columbia have been collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to effectively investigate these crimes, which often span multiple jurisdictions. These extortions have manifested in numerous threats, shootings, and other criminal activities in both Edmonton and Calgary, creating a climate of fear within the community.
Vulnerable Populations Targeted
Recent investigations have revealed a disturbing trend: criminal networks are actively recruiting newly-arrived South Asian newcomers, including foreign students and workers, to participate in extortion and petty crimes. As of March 12th, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) had initiated 372 immigration investigations, issued 70 removal orders, and removed 35 individuals from Canada.
Statistics and Police Appeal
Calgary police report 41 extortion attempts in the city since January 2025, including 18 shootings targeting homes, businesses, and vehicles. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported. Victims are also receiving threats via international phone calls and social media platforms. The CPS describes the investigation as complex and is urging anyone who has been targeted by extortion attempts – typically involving threats and demands for payment through messaging apps like WhatsApp – to come forward.
How to Report Extortion
If you are a victim of extortion, police advise the following steps:
- Document all communications (screenshots, recordings).
- Do not engage with the extortionists.
- Report the incident to the Calgary Police Service immediately.
Investigators assure the public that the work is ongoing and further arrests are anticipated. For more information and updates, visit Global News.
With files from Ken MacGillivray and Karen Bartko, Global News
