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Recently, a troubling series of events has put a spotlight on safety concerns in Surrey, and it all started with Raghbir Singh Nijjar, the owner of Nijjar Trucking. Just days ago, his business was the scene of a shooting, raising alarms in a community that’s already on edge.
This incident followed another unsettling event, where vandals damaged vehicles at the same site. Could this be a sign of a larger issue, possibly involving extortion efforts aimed at local businesses?
Details of the Incident
It all went down early Thursday morning when officers from the Surrey Police Service arrived to find bullet casings scattered across the premises.
Thankfully, no one was injured as staff were present during the incident. But the atmosphere is charged with fear, especially considering the prior day’s vandalism attempt, which security managed to thwart. Nijjar and his team now find themselves feeling exposed and vulnerable.
Adding to this mounting anxiety, Nijjar revealed that he had received threatening calls related to the notorious Lawrence Bishnoi gang about a year ago. This group, described by the National Investigation Agency of India as a criminal organization involved in various serious crimes, including murder and extortion, has made Nijjar uneasy.
Despite alerting both the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Surrey Police about these threats, the calls persisted, amplifying his concerns for the safety of his business and employees.
Police Response and Investigation
Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton of the Surrey Police Service mentioned that the investigation is still unfolding.
The police are considering all potential motives, including links to prior incidents, which indicates a careful and thorough approach to this case. It’s worth noting that these events aren’t happening in isolation; they coincide with other violent acts in the region, such as a recent shooting tied to an alleged extortion attempt in Maple Ridge.
As the investigation continues, the Frontline Investigative Support Team (FLIST) has stepped in to handle this case along with related incidents. Their methodical approach aims to tackle the growing fears surrounding extortion and violence in the Lower Mainland, a region grappling with an unsettling increase in these activities. The police are urging anyone with information to step forward, highlighting the crucial role of community involvement in fighting crime.
The Broader Impact on the Community
This recent wave of violence has set off alarm bells among local business owners and residents. People are understandably worried about the implications of organized crime encroaching on their neighborhoods and the potential threats that come with doing business in such an environment. Nijjar, who has dedicated over thirty years to his business, expressed his frustration: “We work hard every day, and we came here seeking safety and a better future.” His words resonate with many in the community who are now grappling with questions about their safety and the viability of their businesses.
As the investigation unfolds, it’s vital for the community to stay alert and proactive in confronting these threats. The rising tide of violence serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges that local businesses face and underscores the importance of collective action to ensure everyone’s safety. The ongoing efforts of the police, combined with community awareness and responsiveness, will be essential in addressing these escalating concerns around extortion and violence in Surrey.
