RCMP Project E_PURSUANCE nets five in auto dealership extortion case

Five Indian nationals were arrested in Canada under the RCMP-led Project E_PURSUANCE, an investigation into extortion, firearms, and drug trafficking connected to attacks on an auto dealership in British Columbia. The investigation began in June 2025 after co-owners of a dealership in Langley reported significant extortion demands, with their business targeted in attacks involving arson and shootings at its Surrey and Langley locations. Project E_PURSUANCE was a joint-force operation led by Langley RCMP with support from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia and the RCMP’s Federal Policing Pacific Region through the BC Provincial Extortion Task Force.

Arrests and charges

Five individuals were taken into custody across the country. Sanket Singla, 23, was lured from India and arrested upon arrival at Toronto's airport on October 1. The other four accused were arrested in Surrey and remain in custody. They are Sahil, 24; Simranjeet Singh, 24; Harsh, 21, all residents of Surrey; and Jagdeep Singh, 24, of Ottawa. Investigators identified Singla's alleged role while he was in India and determined it was in the public interest for him to appear before Canadian courts. He remains in custody in Toronto.

The accused face a series of serious charges. These include extortion, recklessly discharging a firearm at a place, causing damage by fire or explosion to property, and unauthorized transfer of a prohibited firearm. Charges also encompass throwing an explosive substance with intent to destroy or damage property, firearms trafficking, and drug trafficking.

Evidence and investigative reach

Authorities seized substantial evidence during the operation. The seized items included four firearms, assorted ammunition and magazines, and illicit substances such as suspected fentanyl, cocaine, and opium. Investigators also gathered evidence pertaining to the possible involvement of other suspects in extortions and violent incidents across British Columbia and Alberta, indicating links to broader criminal networks.

Agency cooperation and next steps

The complex investigation involved extensive multi-agency coordination. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) played key roles, with a controlled operation facilitating Singla’s entry into Canada for arrest. The operation also received significant support from the RCMP's Federal Policing Pacific Region and relied on partnerships with RCMP Liaison Officers and international law enforcement agencies. Chief Superintendent Duncan Pound said the case highlighted the importance of multi-agency cooperation in tackling complex organised crime investigations. A media statement acknowledged the assistance of CBSA and IRCC.

Officials acknowledge victim role

Langley RCMP leadership specifically thanked the auto dealership co-owners for their key cooperation. Superintendent Harm Dosanje, Officer in Charge of Langley RCMP, thanked the victims for their courage and trust throughout the investigation. Further charges could follow as related investigations progress.