Dozens of people in GTA could face deportation over possible extortion ties: CBSA

A Canada Border Services Agency patch is seen on the uniform of a CBSA officer at Vancouver International Airport, in Richmond, B.C., on Friday, October 3, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

The Canada Border Services Agency says removal orders have been issued for dozens of people in the Greater Toronto Area with possible ties to extortion following enhanced tracking of immigration enforcement cases that began in the fall of last year.

In a news release, the agency said it began taking a closer look at enforcement cases with potential links to extortion last year, beginning with the Pacific and Prairie regions in August.

In November, the CBSA said, this approach was extended to the GTA.

“These cases come to light through coordinated efforts with law enforcement, input from partner agencies, public information, and CBSA-led investigations,” the release read.

In the Toronto area, nearly 200 immigration investigations have been opened, with 33 removal orders issued. As of November 2025, 17 people from the GTA have been removed from the country.

“Canadians deserve to feel safe in their homes, workplaces, and communities. The Government of Canada is working hard to stay ahead of increasingly complex international criminal threats like extortion,” Gary Anandasangaree, federal Public Safety minister, said in a written statement.

"We continue to take strong action by strengthening enforcement, investing in our partners, and ensuring that those who exploit or endanger others are held accountable. This includes removing criminals and individuals who have no legal right to remain here.”

Across Canada

Outside the GTA, nearly 300 immigration investigations have been opened, according to the CBSA.

In the Pacific region, 150 cases have been opened, 69 removal orders have been issued, and 46 people have been removed from the country.

The CBSA said 138 immigration investigations have been opened in the Prairie region, with 37 removal orders issued and 18 people removed.

“Extortion and organized crime pose serious threats to Canadian communities and businesses,” the news release read.

“The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), working closely with its partners, continues to crack down on individuals involved in organized crime, including those linked to extortion-related activities.”

Police services across the GTA have expressed concerns about an apparent rise in extortion attempts.

In May, Peel police announced the arrest of 17 people in connection with a string of violent extortion incidents that predominantly targeted members of the South Asian business community.

At the time, police said that they believed the group was responsible for approximately 50 per cent of shots fired in Peel Region so far this year.