The Abbotsford Police Department said it is investigating ransom messages allegedly sent to several local businesses last week.

The messages referred to recent incidents reported in Abbotsford, but no connection has been confirmed yet, according to the police statement.

According to the police, the ransom messages received from businesses are similar to those where money was requested from companies in exchange for avoiding future violence.

Abbotsford Police also added that the messages are identical and do not contain any specific information about the companies or the threats directed at them. According to the police, the messages did not include any details about payment, contact, or method of communication.

In a press release, Abbotsford Police urged the public not to communicate with the suspicious person(s). According to the police, many businesses have been targeted through messages in this case in the hope that someone would contact the suspects. The police urged citizens to be cautious.

The police also said that anyone who received such a message or has any other information regarding these extortion attempts should immediately call 604-859-5225.