Canadian police have arrested five foreign nationals in connection with an extensive extortion investigation involving shootings, arson and threats against business owners in British Columbia.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced the arrests on October 2 following an investigation that began in June 2025, after owners of an auto dealership reported serious extortion demands.

According to police, the alleged threats were followed by shootings and arson incidents in Langley and Surrey. Four men were arrested in Surrey, while a fifth suspect was taken into custody at Toronto Pearson International Airport after arriving from India.

The five accused, all reportedly in their 20s, face various charges, including extortion, offences involving explosives, drug-related allegations and firearms offences.

Investigators say the operation involved coordination across Canada and internationally. Police have also identified evidence potentially connecting additional suspects to extortion-related offences elsewhere in Western Canada.

The investigation is part of broader law-enforcement efforts to address extortion-related violence in British Columbia. Authorities have urged victims and business owners to report threats and provide information to investigators.

The charges have not been proven in court. Police investigations are continuing, and further charges may follow as officers examine evidence and potential links to other cases.