Surrey Car Wash Owner Faces Extortion, Business Shot At

A chilling incident has rocked a Surrey, B.C., car wash, as its owner reveals his business was targeted by gunfire just days after he courageously refused an extortion demand. Jimmy Kang, the proprietor of the establishment, is now speaking out about the terrifying ordeal, shedding light on a disturbing pattern of intimidation tactics plaguing the Lower Mainland.

The sequence of events began with a menacing phone call.

Kang recounted how an individual on the other end of the line issued a stark ultimatum: pay up, or face severe consequences, including threats against his family. Despite the immense pressure and fear for his loved ones, Kang stood firm. He promptly reported the threat to the Surrey RCMP, who advised him not to concede to the demands.

However, the threat was not an idle one.

On April 17, the very car wash Kang had built and operated was shot at. Fortunately, no one was injured in the incident, but the physical damage served as a stark, violent reminder of the danger he and his business now faced. The shooting has since prompted a significant police response, with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) now taking the lead on the case.

IHIT, typically involved in homicide investigations, has confirmed their involvement, indicating the serious nature of the incident and its potential links to organized crime.

While initial reports might suggest a direct personal targeting of Kang, IHIT has clarified that the shooting does not appear to be an attempt to harm Kang specifically, but rather a chilling act of intimidation designed to enforce the extortion demands and send a message within the broader context of the Lower Mainland gang conflict.

For Jimmy Kang, the experience has left him feeling vulnerable and deeply shaken.

He expressed a desperate need for greater police presence and protection, not just for his business but for the countless others in the community who might find themselves in similar precarious situations. His story resonates with a growing number of business owners in the region who have reported similar extortion attempts, highlighting a concerning trend where local businesses are being squeezed by criminal enterprises.

As the investigation continues, Kang's bravery in coming forward serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by small business owners amidst rising criminal activity.

The community watches on, hoping for justice and a swift end to these terrifying intimidation tactics.