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MPs must close loopholes that allows extortion suspects to claim refugee status: Eby

On Feb. 3, 2026, British Columbia Premier David Eby urged federal lawmakers to close loopholes that let extortion suspects apply for refugee status, saying Bill C-12 would close that gap.
Dozens of shootings since the new year have targeted South Asian business members in Surrey, creating fear and prompting some to consider closing their businesses, Eby said.
Police made arrests while patrolling and Eby said quick arrests shortly after incidents help restore public confidence, while a community advisory group will aid the B.C. Extortion Task Force.
Eby warned that current immigration processes allow suspects to receive refugee hearings instead of deportation, and deported individuals are not always flagged under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
Eby said he has raised the issue with the federal government and was assured work is underway on name releases, while Mike Duheme, Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, will meet Surrey Police Service and Assistant Commissioner John Brewer this week.

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MPs must close loopholes that allow extortion suspects to claim refugee status: Eby

British Columbia Premier David Eby says federal lawmakers must close “corrosive” loopholes that allow suspects in extortion-related shootings to apply for refugee status as the “paralyzing” situation undermines public confidence and commerce.

3 hours ago·Canada

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Global News

Lean Left

Extortion suspects claiming refugee status ‘ludicrous,’ B.C. premier says

Speaking on Tuesday, David Eby said the issue came to a head when two people were arrested in Surrey in connection with extortion and then claimed refugee status.

4 hours ago·Toronto, Canada

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