Edmonton new-home arsons linked to extortion scheme: sources
Brand new, unoccupied homes have been going up in flames all over Edmonton, and sources tell CTV News Edmonton the fires are related to an extortion scheme.
In November, a new build was destroyed in the southeast neighbourhood of Aster.
A week later, a house on the same block was burned.
Edmonton Fire Rescue Services says between Nov. 1 and Jan. 2, there have been nine fires involving new or under-construction residential structures.
Three of those fires happened in the last week.
All of those fires are being investigated as arson or have been confirmed to be deliberately set.
Most of the builders of the homes are members of the South Asian community.
Multiple sources say the builders have been receiving extortion demands and threats.
The person behind the threat demands a large sum of money.
When the builders don't pay, their homes are being burnt down.
In a video captured by a resident in west Edmonton, where two homes were set on fire last week, two men appear to light a fire at the side of the home before leaving the scene.
A member of the South Asian community, who CTV News has agreed to keep anonymous for his safety, says the threats are being received through WhatsApp, phone calls and other social media.
"Every builder has hired dozens of security guards to protect their properties, and protect themselves and their houses," he said.
"I've heard some builders have set up big screen cameras in their homes and they're staying up all night."
Edmonton isn't the only community where businesses are being targeted.
In Ontario, Peel police have launched a task force after recent extortion attempts targeting the South Asian business community.
In B.C., a shooting at a White Rock home was connected to an extortion letter targeting business owners.
Two men have been arrested in that case.
Former B.C. Minister of Public Safety Kash Heed says Edmonton police need to suppress the extortion incidents in Edmonton immediately before the individuals behind it become emboldened.
"Politicians have to look at this as a priority for the South Asian community or we're going to have people die and we're going to have more violence," he told CTV News.
The anonymous source agrees.
"They have started with the South Asian community but it will not stay a South Asian problem. If someone gets a taste of this kind of bad money, they're going to go after everyone," he said.
The Edmonton Police Service says it has a dedicated project team working on the investigation.
They expect to release more information soon.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Judge in Trump's hush money trial threatened to throw witness out of court for behavior on stand
Michael Cohen testified Monday that he stole tens of thousands of dollars from his ex-boss Donald Trump’s company, an admission defence lawyers hope to use to undermine Cohen’s credibility.
What is BORG drinking, and why is it a dangerous trend? An expert explains
If you've been to a party lately and haven't seen someone drinking a BORG, you're likely not partying with college students.
The world's best airline is paying staff a bonus of 8 months' salary
Singapore Airlines will reward its employees with a bonus worth nearly eight months of salary, a person familiar with the matter told CNN on Friday.
Oilers win Game 7 over Canucks, advance to Western Conference Finals
The Edmonton Oilers weathered a late Vancouver Canucks charge on Monday night, beating the hosts 3-2 to win their seven-game second-round playoff series in the decisive showdown.
McGill says pro-Palestinian protest outside senior administrator's home 'crosses the line'
McGill University has denounced a pro-Palestinian protest held Sunday outside the home of one of its senior administrators.
Red Lobster probes 'endless shrimp' losses after bankruptcy filing
U.S.-based restaurant chain Red Lobster has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in a Florida court after securing $100 million in financing commitments from its existing lenders, the company said on Sunday.
Katy Perry sings goodbye to 'American Idol'
Katy Perry said her goodbyes on 'American Idol' after seven seasons. On Sunday night’s live 'idol' season finale, a medley of Perry's hit songs were performed, including 'Teenage Dream,' 'Dark Horse' and 'California Gurls.'
Microsoft's AI chatbot will 'recall' everything you do on a PC
Microsoft wants laptop users to get so comfortable with its artificial intelligence chatbot that it will remember everything you're doing on your computer and help figure out what you want to do next.
Judge cites error, will reopen sentencing hearing for man who attacked Nancy Pelosi's husband
A federal judge will reopen the sentencing hearing for the man who broke into Nancy Pelosi's San Francisco home and bludgeoned her husband with a hammer after the judge failed to allow him to speak during his court appearance last week.