November 20, 2025
Prabh Sandhu
Liberal MP Sukh Dhaliwal is pushing back against Conservative accusations linking rising extortion cases in Canada to federal inaction, saying the opposition is blocking key crime legislation while playing politics.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre accused the federal government this week of failing to control organized crime networks involved in shootings, threats, and “pay-up or else” schemes that have shaken residents in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario.He argued that the Liberals have allowed gang activity to escalate by being “soft on crime.”
Dhaliwal said the Liberal government has introduced multiple crime-focused bills aimed at strengthening police response and tightening penalties, but the Conservatives have delayed their passage in the House of Commons.
“They stand in front of cameras and blame the government, but when it comes time to pass bills that would help police, they refuse to cooperate,” Dhaliwal said in an interview. “This is political theater at a time when communities need action.”
The Surrey MP said Prime Minister Mark Carney has already instructed federal officials to coordinate a national response, including a planned summit in British Columbia that will bring together all three orders of government.
Dhaliwal said the goal is to ensure municipal leaders and police agencies have clearer direction and better tools to address extortion networks operating across the country.
Extortion schemes targeting South Asian businesses and families have triggered concern in B.C., Alberta, and Ontario, where police are investigating shootings, threats, and coordinated attempts to force victims to pay money.
Dhaliwal urged Canadians—especially those living in Conservative ridings—to contact their local MPs and push for the passage of Bill C-2 and Bill C-12, two government measures he says would give law enforcement stronger investigative powers.
“Communities want safety, not political games,” he said. “If the Conservatives are serious about stopping extortion, they should let these bills pass.”
Police investigations remain ongoing in several provinces, with additional arrests expected.
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