Peel Regional Police announced the results of one of the largest and most coordinated extortion investigations in our region’s history, leading to the arrest of 17 individuals connected to a violent criminal network responsible for shootings, arsons, threats, and organized intimidation targeting members of our South Asian community.
Thanks to Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich, Detective Sergeant Brian Lorette, and the entire Peel Regional Police team for their extraordinary work. This investigation demonstrates exactly why Peel Regional Police is recognized as one of the leading law enforcement agencies in Canada. Their professionalism, persistence, and intelligence-led policing have made our community safer today.
For years, extortion-related violence has created fear and anxiety for local families and business owners. Residents have shared heartbreaking stories about homes being targeted, businesses being attacked, and children living in fear after acts of violence in their neighbourhoods. No family should ever have to experience that in Canada.
That is why Peel Regional Police took decisive action early by establishing one of the first dedicated extortion task forces in the country. Today’s results show that strategy is working. Organized criminal groups believed they could intimidate hardworking residents and operate with impunity. They were wrong.
This operation also highlights the strength of collaboration between law enforcement agencies. Peel Regional Police worked closely with the Ontario Provincial Police, Canada Border Services Agency, Surrey Police Service, the FBI, and other national and international partners to dismantle this network.
Let today send a clear message to anyone involved in organized crime: if you target residents in Peel Region, you will be investigated, you will be arrested, and you will be held accountable. Peel Regional Police has the expertise, leadership, and determination to pursue these investigations wherever they lead.
I also want to speak directly to victims and business owners who may still be living in fear. Please come forward and report these crimes to police. You are not alone, and your community stands with you. The success of this investigation was made possible because victims had the courage to cooperate with investigators. Peel Regional Police is committed to protecting victims, supporting families, and ensuring that those responsible face justice.
Public safety remains one of our highest priorities as a city. Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home, their workplace, and their community. Today’s announcement is an important step forward, but the work continues.
Together, we will not allow violence, intimidation, or organized crime to take root in Peel Region.
