OPP investigating multiple extortion cases in southwestern Ontario

The back of a police vehicle with officers visible in the background of this undated police image. (File photo/Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are investigating multiple cases of extortion in southwestern Ontario, including incidents involving threats of violence and gunfire at homes and businesses.

In an online video, Sgt. Ed Sanchuk said that since 2024, the OPP has identified 10 cases that “appear to follow a pattern of extortion.” Those cases are in addition to more than 50 others currently under investigation in the region.

Police say the extortion attempts have targeted victims in Norfolk, Middlesex, Brant and Wellington counties. The incidents involve phone calls or text messages threatening violence unless a large sum of money is paid.

“The callers are often demonstrating knowledge of the individual’s home or workplace and appear to target members of the South Asian community,” Sanchuk said.

Police say they have also investigated numerous weapons incidents in which properties sustained damage from gunfire. No injuries have been reported, and investigators believe the shootings are linked to the threatening communications and extortion attempts.

“These individuals have employed intimidation tactics, including discharging firearms at victims’ homes and businesses, placing community members at significant risk,” Sanchuk said. “This type of violence and intimidation has no place in our communities.”

The investigations are being led by the OPP’s Criminal Investigation Branch.

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, extortion is defined as unlawfully obtaining money, property or services from a person, entity or institution through coercion.

Police say warning signs of extortion include threatening calls or messages, urgent demands for money to prevent harm and requests for payment through untraceable methods such as wire transfers, gift cards or cryptocurrency.

“Please do not reply to threatening messages or calls and block the originating number,” Sanchuk said.

The OPP advises anyone who receives such threats to treat them as suspicious, avoid engaging with the sender and report the incident to police immediately. Victims are encouraged to save all communications and payment records and to seek support from trusted contacts or victim services.

Anyone with information about the extortion attempts is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. In an emergency, call 911. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).