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In Brampton, Ontario, a city with a significant Punjabi population, local leaders are voicing alarm over an alarming trend of extortion targeting their community. Recent police operations have led to the arrest of over a dozen individuals linked to these criminal activities, yet many residents remain sceptical about the long-term resolution of this issue. The pervasive fear has forced some to relocate in secrecy, highlighting the urgent need for support and intervention.
Community Under Siege
Avi Dhaliwal, a local entrepreneur and resident of Brampton for 35 years, has witnessed the rise of extortion threats since late 2022. He spoke candidly about the impact these threats have had on daily life, stating, “People don’t even want to sit at Tim Hortons or Starbucks. They are always looking around.” Dhaliwal believes that these menacing tactics are predominantly aimed at the Punjabi community, creating an atmosphere of fear that has prompted some individuals to change their residences without updating their addresses. “I don’t see anything getting resolved… because people are still under threat,” he lamented.
In late May, Peel Regional Police announced the arrest of 17 suspects following an extensive investigation that uncovered a pattern of intimidation directed at South Asian business owners across Canada and the United States. This crackdown involved more than 100 charges, including 75 firearm-related offences, along with extortion and arson charges.
The For Brothers Network
According to police, many of the accused have connections to a criminal organisation known as the For Brothers, which was first identified by Peel Regional Police in 2025. Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich explained that this group’s activities prompted the investigation that led to the recent arrests. He indicated that this may be the first time a case has been definitively linked to the For Brothers, marking a critical juncture in the fight against organised crime in the region.
Balpreet Singh, legal counsel for the World Sikh Organization of Canada, emphasised that while extortion is often framed as a broader South Asian issue, this narrative overlooks the unique challenges faced by the Punjabi community. “When we describe this as a South Asian problem, it often erases important details,” he asserted, highlighting the need for a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
Fear and Displacement
Binder Singh, another prominent community figure, has seen firsthand the toll that these extortion schemes have taken on local residents. He disclosed that many victims are so fearful they are considering leaving Canada altogether. “It’s the broken dream right now. We came to Canada for safety, security, and prosperity,” he shared. Singh believes that immigration policies may inadvertently contribute to the rise of such criminal activities within the community.
In response to these concerns, a spokesperson for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that the department collaborates with various national and international agencies to conduct thorough security screenings aimed at mitigating potential risks. Meanwhile, the Canada Border Services Agency confirmed that investigations into individuals involved in extortion are ongoing.
International Criminal Connections
Deputy Chief Milinovich acknowledged that community members have expressed concerns regarding the alleged involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang, a notorious group based in India known for its violent tactics and extortion schemes. However, he clarified that the police have found no concrete evidence linking the recent arrests to this gang. “I think it would be naive, almost negligent, to ignore those concerns,” he remarked, affirming the community’s fears.
Despite the lack of direct connections, it appears that those accused of extortion have invoked the name of the Lawrence Bishnoi Gang to instil fear within the Punjabi community. “Our community is very familiar with that particular name. It carries some anxiety. It carries fear,” Milinovich noted, suggesting that the mere association is enough to heighten tensions.
Why it Matters
The ongoing threat of extortion against Brampton’s Punjabi community is not just an isolated issue; it reflects broader societal challenges that undermine the safety and security of immigrant populations in Canada. As fear grips the community, it is vital for authorities to establish a robust response that not only addresses the immediate threats but also fosters trust and resilience among residents. A comprehensive approach involving law enforcement, community support, and targeted policy reform is essential to restore a sense of safety and stability for those who sought refuge in Canada.
