Surrey Council Demands National State of Emergency Over Extortion Crisis

SURREY, BC – In a unanimous vote, Surrey City Council has formally called on the federal government to declare a national state of emergency to combat a violent extortion wave targeting local business owners.

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The motion, spearheaded by Mayor Brenda Locke, marks a significant escalation in the city’s attempt to curb a “reign of terror” that has predominantly impacted the South Asian community. Officials argue that the sophistication and transnational nature of these crimes have moved beyond the scope of local law enforcement.

Strategic Demands to Ottawa

The council’s resolution outlines a five-point plan for federal intervention:

• Federal Oversight: The immediate appointment of a “National Commissioner for Extortion Violence” to bridge intelligence gaps between provinces.
• Deportation Reform: Amending the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to allow for the immediate deportation of non-citizens involved in extortion or firearms offenses.
• Border & Intelligence Surges: Reallocating federal RCMP resources to intercept the international communications used to coordinate these threats.
• Legal Deterrents: Strengthening the criminal code to allow for the public naming of suspects and expanding detention powers for those linked to organized crime syndicates.

A Growing Trend of Violence

The call for emergency measures follows a grim statistical trend. In 2025, Surrey recorded 132 extortion attempts, nearly 40% of which involved active violence such as arson or shootings at residences. The momentum has only increased in 2026, with over 35 cases reported in January alone.

Mayor Locke emphasized that these are not isolated incidents but a coordinated assault on Canadian commerce. “This is no longer a Surrey problem; it is a Canadian crisis that requires a federal hammer,” Locke stated during the council session.

Summary Version (The “Quick Read”)

The Issue: Surrey, B.C. is being hit by a wave of violent extortions (shootings, arson, and death threats) targeting South Asian business owners. The Action: City Council is demanding a National State of Emergency from the federal government. The Goal: To get more RCMP funding, create a National Extortion Commissioner, and fast-track the deportation of any non-citizens involved in these crimes. The Reality: With over 30 cases reported in the first month of 2026, the city argues that local police are being outpaced by international gangs.