Edmonton Police Service (EPS) detectives have successfully arrested six suspects and issued a Canada-wide warrant for a seventh individual in connection with the extortion and arson series known as Project Gaslight. The investigation, which has profoundly affected the South Asian community and the broader Edmonton population, has been ongoing for months, and today marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of justice.
Yesterday, on Thursday, July 25th, EPS and RCMP officers executed search warrants at six locations in southeast Edmonton. This coordinated effort led to the arrest of six individuals, aged 17 to 21, who were part of a structured criminal group with a defined hierarchy. The suspects have been charged with a total of 54 counts related to extortion, arson, and firearms offenses. Among those arrested, some were permanent residents, while others were Indian nationals and Canadian citizens.
The EPS has also issued a Canada-wide warrant for 34-year-old Maninder Singh Dhaliwal, believed to be the leader of this criminal network. Dhaliwal is suspected of orchestrating the extortion and arson activities from overseas, and the EPS is working closely with federal and international partners, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), to locate and apprehend him. Superintendent Adam MacIntosh from the RCMP National Coordination and Support Team highlighted the collaborative efforts between various police departments across Canada to tackle this issue.
Acting Inspector Dave Paton of the EPS Organized Crime Branch provided further insights into the complex investigation. Since October of the previous year, the EPS has been investigating 40 incidents of arson, firearms offenses, and extortions believed to be linked to this criminal network. Despite significant progress and charges laid in 26 of these cases, the EPS acknowledges that there is still much work to be done.
The investigation has not been limited by geographical boundaries, with coordination extending to police services in British Columbia, Ontario, and national and international agencies. This extensive collaboration has been crucial in gathering evidence and advancing the investigation. Paton emphasized the tireless efforts of the EPS investigators, who have reviewed a staggering amount of evidence to bring the case to its current state.
The Project Gaslight extortion series has primarily targeted South Asian business owners in Edmonton, instilling fear and disrupting the community’s peace. Chief Dale McFee of the EPS expressed gratitude to the community members who courageously came forward with information, aiding the investigation. The EPS also acknowledged the vital role of local South Asian media outlets in reporting on the case and maintaining community engagement.
Despite the arrests, the EPS believes that there are more victims who have yet to come forward. Chief McFee urged these individuals to contact the police, assuring them that the EPS will relentlessly pursue those responsible for these crimes. The recent arson incident in the Cavanagh neighborhood, believed to be connected to the extortion series, underscores the ongoing threat posed by this criminal network.
Inspector Paton highlighted that the arrested individuals were part of a criminal group that meticulously researched their victims before committing extortion, arson, and shootings. The individuals were allegedly paid to carry out these crimes, motivated by financial gain. The EPS has appealed to South Asian parents to talk to their young adults about the dangers of being recruited into such criminal activities, emphasizing the long-term consequences and the exploitation involved.
The EPS remains committed to dismantling this criminal network and preventing further extortions and arson incidents. The involvement of the RCMP National Coordination and Support Team and the DEA exemplifies the comprehensive approach being taken to address this issue. Superintendent MacIntosh reaffirmed the RCMP’s dedication to monitoring and supporting various police investigations, capturing best practices, and overcoming challenges to bring the perpetrators to justice.