Mississauga (Jan 8) – Peel police announced that it is investigating a disturbing trend of extortion attempts primarily targeted towards members of the South Asian business community. A special hotline (1-866-966-0616) has also been launched for the public to report such incidents.
Victims are contacted through a variety of social media platforms and demands for money are made under threats of violence, which have occurred in some incidents. Sixteen incidents are currently being investigated.
In response to these incidents, Peel police has launched an Extortion Investigative Task Force (EITF). “This will be a dedicated team comprised of investigative and intelligence units supported by our tactical teams,” police said in a news release.
The public is advised to immediately contact police if they, their family or their business is targeted with threats of violence to extort money or other valuables. Suspects are using social media platforms to contact victims and perform these illegal acts. They often know the victim’s name, phone number, address and business information, police said.
Police are advising not to make any form of payment and to contact police immediately.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Extortion Investigative Task Force or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, Hotline Phone Number: 1-866-966-0616 or email: taskforce@peelpolice.ca
