At least seven individuals are accused by the police of using the threat of arson to extort money from Winnipeg convenience stores in a series of incidents last summer. Winnipeg police revealed that five people have been arrested, while two others are being sought in connection with multiple attempts in July to extort funds from retailers by offering protection from arson. Additionally, three deliberate fires were reported during this period.
According to Insp. Jennifer McKinnon from the Winnipeg Police Service major crimes unit, a group of individuals, some local and others from eastern Canada, were allegedly dispatched to intimidate and extort local business owners using arson as a tool. The fires not only endangered lives but also caused damage to properties and instilled fear within the community.
These incidents occurred at various locations between July 16 and 23, including Selkirk Avenue, Spruce Street, Main Street, and Portage Avenue. The fires were set at a warehouse on Spruce and two convenience stores on Selkirk, while three convenience stores paid money for protection from potential arson threats.
Farhan Nabil, 29, and Jermaine Weekes, 40, are among the individuals linked to these incidents and are currently wanted on Canada-wide arrest warrants. Nabil faces four charges of conspiracy to commit indictable offenses, including arson and extortion, while Weekes is wanted for two counts of extortion.
Mayor Scott Gillingham issued a stern warning to potential extortionists, emphasizing that the city will not tolerate such criminal behavior and that those responsible will be apprehended and held accountable. The police have urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the wanted individuals to contact their major crimes unit or Crime Stoppers.
In a related development, Criminologist Wade Deisman highlighted a surge in extortion cases not only in Winnipeg but also in other regions, such as British Columbia. The mayor of Surrey, B.C., has even called for federal intervention to address the escalating extortion incidents in the area.
Enhancing security measures, such as surveillance systems and motion sensor lighting, may help deter such crimes. Authorities in Manitoba have introduced a rebate program to assist small businesses in reinforcing their security systems and safeguarding against potential threats.
The police continue to investigate the extortion cases in Winnipeg, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the safety and security of businesses and communities in the region.