An Ontario town dealing with a rise in extortion cases is asking the federal government for help.
Caledon Mayor Annette Groves has written to federal officials, urging them to take action and support efforts to curb the lawlessness.
Since 2023, this community in north Peel Region has seen over 40 reported cases of extortion. She is joining Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown, who made a similar appeal in December.
Many believe organized gangs are specifically targeting the South Asian community, which has been expanding in Caledon from nearby Brampton.
Some reports suggest that many of the threats are linked to the Bishnoi gang. This Indian criminal organization has made its way into Canada and was recently designated a terrorist group by the federal government. The RCMP has identified Bishnoi as agents of the Indian government who focus on Sikhs living in Canada.
Extortion typically involves groups or individuals using violence, threats, intimidation, or blackmail to extract money from victims; however, lately, these threats have escalated into violence as culprits fire bullets into victims’ homes.
Caledon and Brampton operate under different police jurisdictions, but the lines between these two municipalities are becoming less distinct as extortionists disregard borders while searching for new targets.
A police source informed INsauga. com that it doesn’t take much to become a target.
“A new car in the driveway, a small business operation, these are all signals to these perpetrators that someone has money,” said the source. “It’s discouraging for honest people just trying to make a living or working to better themselves.”
The OPP handle policing in Caledon, while Peel Regional Police investigate crimes in Brampton and Mississauga; they note that there were nearly 200 extortion cases reported in 2025.
In his letter to the federal government, Brampton’s mayor requested similar support given to regions in British Columbia where funding was allocated to enhance enforcement teams aimed at tackling organized crime.
Peel Deputy Police Chief Nick Milinovich also spoke about this issue recently stating there are “gaps” within the legal system being exploited by those who continually manage to evade consequences for their actions and allow extortionists to keep operating freely.
The gaps noted by law enforcement include lenient prison sentences and a bail system that allows those accused of crimes to be released quickly while awaiting their court dates. Many police organizations feel that individuals released on bail often return swiftly back into criminal activities.
“There are bail and justice reforms that are required in order to prevent people from revictimizing and targeting our community,” Milinovich said.
So far, Ottawa recognizes the challenges present in Peel Region but hasn’t responded with additional resources yet.
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Caledon and Brampton operate under different police jurisdictions, but the lines between these two municipalities are becoming less distinct as extortionists disregard borders while searching for new targets.
A police source informed INsauga. com that it doesn’t take much to become a target.
“A new car in the driveway, a small business operation, these are all signals to these perpetrators that someone has money,” said the source. “It’s discouraging for honest people just trying to make a living or working to better themselves.”
The OPP handle policing in Caledon, while Peel Regional Police investigate crimes in Brampton and Mississauga; they note that there were nearly 200 extortion cases reported in 2025.
In his letter to the federal government, Brampton’s mayor requested similar support given to regions in British Columbia where funding was allocated to enhance enforcement teams aimed at tackling organized crime.
Peel Deputy Police Chief Nick Milinovich also spoke about this issue recently stating there are “gaps” within the legal system being exploited by those who continually manage to evade consequences for their actions and allow extortionists to keep operating freely.
The gaps noted by law enforcement include lenient prison sentences and a bail system that allows those accused of crimes to be released quickly while awaiting their court dates. Many police organizations feel that individuals released on bail often return swiftly back into criminal activities.
“There are bail and justice reforms that are required in order to prevent people from revictimizing and targeting our community,” Milinovich said.
So far, Ottawa recognizes the challenges present in Peel Region but hasn’t responded with additional resources yet.
Last 30 Days: 66,256 Votes
All Time: 1,138,547 Votes
2988 VOTES
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