Surrey Police Release Photos of Men Charged in Early Morning Shooting
Surrey Police have released images of two men charged in connection with a recent shooting incident. The public appeal aims to uncover more information as investigators link these events to a growing trend of extortion in Surrey, British Columbia.
Details of the Incident and Charges
Officers from the Surrey Police Service (SPS) were on patrol around 3:50 a.m. on a Monday when they responded to suspected gunfire near 129 Street and 84 Avenue. They located a vehicle connected to the incident and took two individuals into custody: Harshdeep Singh, 20, and Hanspreet Singh, 21.
Both suspects face serious charges. Harshdeep is charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and occupying a vehicle where a firearm is present, while Hanspreet is charged solely with the latter. A loaded handgun was discovered during their arrest, prompting ongoing investigation by the SPS and involvement from the Canada Border Services Agency.
Context of Extortion in Surrey
Surrey has recently seen a surge in extortion cases, with authorities reporting:
- 36 suspected extortions
- 8 related shootings
- 21 identified victims
The majority of victims come from South Asian communities, receiving threats and financial demands. Police emphasize the need for community assistance in addressing these crimes.
Public Appeal for Information
In an effort to gather more intelligence, the SPS has invited the public to review the images of the suspects. Police believe this could lead to new witnesses or information that could advance the investigation.
The photo release complies with British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, aimed at assisting ongoing investigations. Additionally, the SPS has established an extortion reward fund totaling $250,000 for information leading to successful charges and convictions.
Ongoing Investigation and New Developments
Just days after the shooting incident involving the Singhs, another case of suspected extortion was reported in Surrey, specifically in the Newton area. Officers discovered damage to a business following reports of gunfire, though fortunately, no injuries occurred.
The motive remains under investigation, though links to the extortion trend are evident. Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant information to reach out to the Surrey Extortion Tip Line or Crime Stoppers.
Government Response to Rising Crime Rates
B.C. Premier David Eby has addressed the extortion issue at a national level, discussing it during a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney. The focus is on mobilizing police resources across affected provinces, aiming to strengthen the response against extortion crimes.
The urgent need for coordinated efforts is pivotal, with a meeting planned for police leadership from provinces experiencing high extortion rates. This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to tackling the crisis effectively.
For anyone with information relating to extortion cases or the shooting incident, the Surrey Police encourage you to come forward and assist in enhancing community safety.
