Image: AbbyPD / Abbotsford Police Department Sgt. Paul Walker says the Abbotsford PD is reaffirming its commitment to public safety and security following yesterday's announcement by the RCMP that agents of the Government of India are allegedly involved in criminal activity in Canada.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Abbotsford Police Department

Abbotsford PD reaffirms safety, security amid threats of extortion, violence from foreign agents

Oct 15, 2024 | 8:44 AM

ABBOTSFORD — The Abbotsford Police Department reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and security following yesterday’s announcement by the RCMP that agents of the Government of India are allegedly involved in criminal activity in Canada.

According to a statement from Abbotsford PD Sgt. Paul Walker, media relations officer for the department, Abbotsford authorities say they’re deeply concerned by the disclosure Monday (Oct. 14) that criminal activity connected to the Indian government is occurring within Canada. Police say the alleged criminal acts impact victims and spread fear among friends, family, neighbours and communities, including Abbotsford itself.

“AbbyPD has remained steadfast in assessing and investigating reported incidents of extortion and violence,” Sgt. Walker wrote in his statement. “We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners, including the RCMP, to hold those accountable for crimes committed within Abbotsford. AbbyPD remains open to work with key community stakeholders to listen and collaborate in tackling violence and threats of violence in our community.”

On Monday, the RCMP alerted the public about a rash of crimes including murder, extortion and coercion that the force links to Indian government agents. The RCMP and other Canadian officials presented evidence to India earlier this past weekend, but they say New Delhi refused to co-operate in police investigations. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly says that is why Canada declared the six diplomats persona non grata, which is one of the stiffest penalties Canada can impose on under the Vienna Convention.

Abbotsford is home to a thriving South Asian community. In November 2023, the Abbotsford PD confirmed that it launched an investigation into a concerning pattern of extortion threats directed at numerous local businesses. Multiple establishments reported receiving identical letters demanding payment for protection against potential violence, raising alarm within the community. Preliminary findings suggest that the threatening notes were distributed widely to commercial enterprises. Notably, the letters lacked specific details about the recipient, including a designated method of payment or avenues for communication.

Chilliwack Fire Department

Seniors building in Chilliwack briefly evacuated due to smoke Tuesday morning

1h ago

Provincial election

Fraser-Nicola candidate races to visit 6 towns this week, including Agassiz and Hope, before election

2h ago

Abbotsford Police Department

Abbotsford PD reaffirms safety, security amid threats of extortion, violence from foreign agents

2h ago

Police say they’re committed to working with the community maintain overall public safety, and are asking people to submit any information about criminal activity in Abbotsford.

“Your vigilance and cooperation are crucial in maintaining the safety of our community,” Sgt. Walker said. “The RCMP and AbbyPD are seeking the public’s assistance in reporting incidents of foreign interference by the Government of India. Anyone who feels threatened online or in person, should report the incident to their local police. If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. Individuals can also report to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1-800-420-5805 or online at rcmp.ca/report-it.”