Peel Police link shooting incident in Brampton to growing pattern of threats against South Asian businesses
Three Indian-origin men — Harpal Singh (34), Rajnoor Singh (20), and Eknoor Singh (22) — have been arrested in Brampton, Canada, for opening fire inside a vacant business and attempting extortion. Peel Police, who apprehended the trio on May 1, said the arrests are part of a larger crackdown on a “disturbing trend” of extortion targeting South Asian business owners across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) , reported indiatoday.in.
Over 60 cases probed since December 2023 as fear grips local South Asian community
The case began on April 30, when gunfire was reported at a closed business property. Though no one was injured, the owner later began receiving threatening messages demanding money. Investigators quickly connected the dots, launching a coordinated operation using surveillance and tactical response teams, leading to the trio’s arrest.
Since December 2023, Peel Police have investigated over 60 extortion-related incidents, including nine cases of gunfire at empty businesses, resulting in more than 150 criminal charges.
Deputy Chief Marc Andrews of Peel Police said the force remains committed to ending the wave of fear. “Our investigators are relentless. We will use every tool available to arrest and hold accountable those behind these crimes,” he stated. “No business owner should have to live in fear of doing honest work.”
The arrests have rattled the South Asian community in Brampton. Priya Sharma, a local restaurant owner, expressed gratitude for police action but stressed the need for stronger government response. “When you open your doors every morning, you shouldn’t have to wonder if this is the day someone comes with a gun,” she said.
This is not the first time Indian-origin individuals have been implicated. In February 2024, five people — including two women — were arrested for extortion threats against South Asian businesses, and another man was detained in Hamilton for issuing threats to Brampton business owners and staff.
The ongoing investigation signals law enforcement’s determination to root out organized criminal activity targeting vulnerable communities.
