Police in Calgary have laid charges as part of an ongoing investigation into extortion targeting members and businesses in the South Asian community, including daycares.
They say a series of escalating threats were made in March.
A home was shot at, and there was repeated property damage and suspicious activity at multiple daycares outside the city.
Investigators say the cases are believed to be related to ongoing extortion attempts involving intimidation, property damage and shootings connected to demands for money and transferred control of businesses.
A 45-year-old Calgary man is to appear in court next month on charges of extortion and uttering threats.
Police say it's not believed there was any risk to children at the daycares but that investigators are treating the matter as a priority.
"These charges represent an important step forward, but this is only the beginning of our enforcement efforts," said Supt. Jeff Bell said in a statement.
"We want to be very clear: Calgary is not a place where extortion, intimidation or violence will be tolerated. We are taking a hard stance and will continue down this path."
Picture Courtesy: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
