CBSA launches hundreds of immigration investigations linked to extortion networks across Canada

The Canada Border Services Agency says it has launched hundreds of immigration investigations tied to alleged extortion networks operating across Canada, with dozens of foreign nationals already deported as part of the enforcement effort.

According to information shared during a public safety roundtable in British Columbia, the agency had opened 446 immigration investigations nationwide as of May 7 involving foreign nationals suspected of participating in or being connected to extortion-related activities.

The CBSA said 118 removal orders have been issued following those investigations, while 55 individuals linked to what authorities described as illegal extortion networks have been removed from Canada so far.

British Columbia remains one of the provinces most affected by extortion-related activity. CBSA regional director Nina Patel said the Pacific region has completed 132 investigations to date. The agency has issued 52 removal orders in the region, resulting in 33 deportations.

The update was discussed during a roundtable meeting led by B.C. Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger. Representatives from the CBSA, local police agencies and extortion investigation teams also attended the discussion.

Authorities have not publicly released details about the identities of those removed from Canada or specific criminal charges connected to the investigations. It is also unclear how many cases remain active.