Three Men Face Bail Hearing in Surrey's High-Profile Extortion Probe Targeting South Asian Community

Three individuals charged in connection with an alarming extortion scheme that has deeply unsettled Surrey's South Asian business community are set to appear for a bail hearing. Gurtej Grewal, Jagraj Mushiana, and Himmat Singh Virk are currently in custody, facing a range of serious charges including extortion, firearms offenses, and uttering threats, following an intensive investigation by the Surrey RCMP.

The charges stem from a series of incidents reported since last fall, predominantly targeting members of the South Asian community in Surrey.

Victims, primarily business owners and residents, have been subjected to demands for substantial sums of money, often accompanied by menacing threats of violence. In some cases, the perpetrators have allegedly sent images of firearms, including a 'ghost gun'—a weapon assembled from unregulated parts and lacking a serial number—to underscore their threats, aiming to instill fear and compliance.

Chief Supt.

Brian Edwards of the Surrey RCMP Task Force on Organized Crime emphasized the gravity of the situation during a recent press conference. He highlighted the significant impact these illicit activities have had on the peace of mind and financial security of the community. The police investigation has been comprehensive, involving numerous resources to track down those responsible and bring them to justice.

The upcoming bail hearing, scheduled for Wednesday, May 29, at Surrey Provincial Court, will be a critical juncture in this ongoing legal battle.

During the hearing, the Crown prosecution will present its arguments against the release of the accused, citing concerns such as the likelihood of further offenses, the potential danger to the public, and the risk of flight. The defense, conversely, will seek to persuade the court that their clients should be granted bail, pending trial.

This case underscores the persistent challenges posed by organized crime in the region and the dedication of law enforcement to combat such threats.

The Surrey RCMP has urged anyone who has been a victim of extortion or has information related to these incidents to come forward, assuring them that their reports will be handled with utmost discretion and professionalism. Community cooperation remains a vital component in dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring the safety of all residents.