TORANTO: British Columbia’s top Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer leading the fight against a surge in extortion-related violence has apologised for refusing to describe the situation as a “crisis,” following sharp criticism from Premier David Eby and public backlash.
Assistant Commissioner John Brewer, head of the British Columbia Extortion Task Force and Criminal Operations Officer for the BC RCMP, issued the apology on Wednesday after his comments during a media update on Tuesday sparked controversy.
Brewer had not accepted during a media conference on January 20 that the wave of extortion threats, shootings, and arsons—primarily targeting South Asian businesses and individuals in the Lower Mainland—constituted a crisis, insisting instead that police were making progress and were “actively hunting” suspects.
In his statement, Brewer said: “I want to apologise for challenging the term ‘crisis’ yesterday, as it has become the focus and called into question the RCMP’s commitment to addressing extortions in BC. That was not my intention. The opportunity to provide an update and reassure the public has instead impacted public confidence. The task force’s commitment to addressing the ongoing threats and violence has not wavered. Our efforts have never been limited because of a term.
“Extortions remain one of our highest priorities. The BC Extortion Task Force is focused on advancing investigations, holding those responsible accountable, as well as sharing information, intelligence, tactics and strategies that can also be used to suppress threats and violence in the communities.”
The remarks drew ire from Premier David Eby, who urged Brewer to demonstrate urgency or step aside, stating the comments “cut at public confidence.” Eby described Brewer’s initial position as “puzzling” and said the officer needed to clarify his stance or face consequences.
The controversy unfolded amid a four-month update from the task force, which has taken over 32 investigative files across the Lower Mainland since its formation in September 2025.
According to Canadian media reports, including the RCMP and outlets such as Global News and CBC, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is investigating 111 foreign nationals who may be inadmissible to Canada for offences under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. Nine individuals have already been deported in connection with extortion-related files, and seven people have faced criminal charges as a result of the task force’s work.
The extortion wave, often involving demands sent via WhatsApp from overseas numbers and escalating to drive-by shootings or firebombings if unpaid, has heightened fear in communities, particularly in Surrey.