The mayors of Brampton and Surrey urged the federal government to assist in developing a multidisciplinary strategy to combat the increasing threats of extortion against their cities, especially businesses in South Asia.

In a letter sent to the Federal Minister of Public Safety this week, the mayors of Brampton (Ontario) and Surrey (British Columbia) expressed deep concern for their cities due to extortion threats.

The letter, signed by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke, stated that these incidents have caused fear in our communities and highlighted the urgent need for a coordinated response, including multiple levels of authority, including regional ones.

"We urge your ministry to recognize the cross-jurisdictional nature of these threats and lead a coordinated response that ensures the safety and protection of all affected communities across Canada."

The mayors said the latest reports from their provinces confirmed the link between extortion attempts and violent shootings, and the police acknowledged the gravity of the situation.

The mayors also wrote that it is essential for the federal government, through your ministry, to take the lead in this collaboration.

By leveraging the intelligence resources and capabilities of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, alongside local police, we can develop a strong and integrated approach to address this issue.

A spokesperson for the Federal Minister of Public Safety said the RCMP is working with local police on this issue.

Sean Sebastian Cuomo also wrote in a statement that these ransom threats raise deep concern.

Last month, Peel Regional Police, which has jurisdiction over Brampton, said they launched an operation to investigate a concerning trend of extortion threats primarily targeting the South Asian business community. A task force has been formed.

The police said victims were contacted through various social media platforms and asked for money under threat of violence.

Also, according to the police, ransom seekers often have the victim's personal information such as name, phone number, home address, and work details.

In one of the latest extortion cases carried out by Peel, police arrested a 23-year-old man from Abbotsford, British Columbia, in December, allegedly firing several shots at a company in Brampton.