Peel Regional Police have arrested two people after a person was threatened and extorted during a date arranged online in Brampton earlier this month. Police said the victim was contacted in July through an online messaging platform by an individual using the alias Manisha Sharma. The victim agreed to meet the individual at a basement apartment near Torbram Road and Peter Robertson Boulevard. Police allege that the male suspect then entered the basement a short time later and threatened the victim into e-transferring $6,000. Following an investigation, police arrested Harwinder Singh, 35, of Brampton, and Riya Riya, 23, also of Brampton, on Aug. 12. Both are charged with two counts each of forcible confinement, extortion, and robbery. Singh is also charged with uttering threats. Police say both accused were held in custody pending bail hearings. The charges have not been tested in court. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are asking anyone with information to contact police or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
