Calgary: The Calgary Police Service (CPS) has charged three individuals, including a 17-year-old, following an investigation into an extortion scheme targeting local businesses and families via the messaging app WhatsApp.
The incident originated on March 25, when suspects gathered detailed personal information about a female victim—including her full name, home address, business details, and information about her family members. The suspects then sent threatening WhatsApp messages demanding a large sum of money. Within 12 hours of sending the threat, shots were fired at the victim’s residence.
Following an investigation utilizing CCTV footage and digital forensics, officers arrested the 17-year-old male suspect on July 29. Further investigation led to charges against 23-year-old Kanureet Kaur of Chestermere. Police have also issued a search warrant and are actively seeking 21-year-old Tanveer Singh in connection with the crime.
According to police statistics, Calgary has seen 51 reported extortion incidents and 19 related shooting incidents since April 2025, with charges laid against 19 individuals so far. Authorities strongly advise anyone receiving extortion threats not to pay the ransom and to contact police immediately.
