B.C. extortion wave described as 'terror attack in slow motion' by Eby

B.C. Premier David Eby called the province's recent extortion wave a "terror attack in slow motion" and urged Parliament to pass Bill C-14 on bail and sentencing reform; the federal government has announced 20 additional RCMP officers and helicopter support for Surrey.

B.C. Premier David Eby spoke in Ottawa after a premiers meeting and characterized a recent wave of extortion-related attacks in the province as a "terror attack in slow motion." He urged Parliament to move quickly on Bill C-14, which would change bail and sentencing rules. Eby also raised concerns about people charged in extortion cases applying for refugee status under current rules. The federal government announced extra RCMP officers and helicopters to support anti-extortion efforts in Surrey. Key facts: - Premier David Eby described the extortion wave using the phrase "terror attack in slow motion." - Eby called for the passage of Bill C-14 on bail and sentencing reform as a response. - The Canada Border Services Agency reported that 15 foreign nationals facing extortion charges had applied for refugee status. - The federal government said it would send 20 additional RCMP officers to Surrey and deploy helicopters for anti-extortion efforts. Summary: Eby framed the recent extortion incidents as a serious public concern and asked Parliament to approve Bill C-14 to change bail and sentencing rules. The federal response includes additional RCMP resources for Surrey; the timing and legislative outcome are undetermined at this time.