Protest in Surrey over extortion as three people charged

A small protest in Surrey called for greater public safety amid a wave of extortion; Surrey police said three men were charged after an extortion-related shooting and have been remanded into custody.

A small group of people gathered outside the Surrey Arts Centre to call for more public safety as communities in the Lower Mainland have faced a wave of extortion-related crimes over the past year. Organizers said the crimes have particularly affected South Asian residents, and some demonstrators urged officials to do more. Surrey Police announced charges in connection with an extortion-related shooting that occurred the previous day. Police said the investigation is ongoing and that the immigration status of the charged individuals is being reviewed by the Canada Border Services Agency. Key facts: - A protest in Surrey called for increased public safety amid a year-long wave of extortion-related crimes in the Lower Mainland. - Surrey Police announced three men were charged after an extortion-related shooting and said all three have been remanded into custody. - Police stated the investigation is ongoing and that additional Criminal Code charges may be possible. - The Canada Border Services Agency is reviewing the men's immigration status, according to police. Summary: The protest underscored community concern about the local impact of extortion and calls for stronger responses from authorities. Police have charged three people and say the investigation continues; additional legal or procedural steps are undetermined at this time.