EDMONTON Police said on Wednesday that they are now investigating 27 events related to an ongoing extortion series that has affected the South Asian community in the Edmonton region since October, including five extortions, 15 arsons and seven firearms offences.

No injuries have been reported as a result of the shootings, but a firefighter was injured in one of the arsons. An estimated $9 million in property damage has been reported as a result of the arsons and shootings.

A dedicated project team continues to investigate this series and its connection to organized crime. While similar events have been reported in B.C. and Ontario, at this time, investigators do not believe these to be connected to the Edmonton series.

At the EPS town hall meeting on Thursday, February 8, people will:

• Learn insights into investigations
• Ask questions
• Share their ideas and suggestions

To register for the EPS town hall meeting, click here.