CBSA provides update on enforcement actions targeting extortion across Canada –

Press Release

From: Canada Border Services Agency

Extortion and organized crime pose serious threats to Canadian communities and businesses. Protecting the safety and well-being of Canadians requires constant vigilance in the face of these evolving threats. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), working closely with its partners, continues to crack down on individuals involved in organized crime, including those linked to extortion-related activities.

Across Canada, the CBSA engages with law enforcement partners through joint task forces focused on serious and organized crime. When police identify individuals who may be in violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), they refer these cases to the CBSA for investigation, which may result in enforcement actions, including removal from Canada.

Beginning in August 2025, the CBSA implemented enhanced tracking of immigration enforcement cases with potential links to extortion in the Pacific and Prairie regions, later extending this approach to the Greater Toronto Area in November 2025. These cases come to light through coordinated efforts with law enforcement, input from partner agencies, public information, and CBSA-led investigations.

In relation to this work, as of June 18, 2026, the CBSA has opened 484 immigration investigations, 139 removal orders have been issued on various inadmissibility grounds and are in the process of being enforced, with 81 individuals having already been removed from Canada. These figures can be further broken down by region. As of June 18, 2026:

• In CBSA Pacific Region, 150 immigration investigations have been opened, 69 removal orders have been issued, and 46 individuals have been removed from Canada;
• In CBSA Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Region, 196 immigration investigations have been opened, 33 removal orders have been issued, and 17 individuals have been removed from Canada;
• In CBSA Prairie Region, 138 immigration investigations have been opened, 37 removal orders have been issued, and 18 individuals have been removed from Canada.

Combating extortion remains a priority for the CBSA. The Agency continues to advance investigations into suspected individuals and will take decisive enforcement action, including removals, as cases progress.

The CBSA operates a tip line that allows the public to share information or directly report on the whereabouts of those who are inadmissible to Canada. Tips received are reviewed and assigned to officers for investigations. Contact the Border Watch Line or call toll-free: 1-888-502-9060.

Quotes

“Canadians deserve to feel safe in their homes, workplaces, and communities. The Government of Canada is working hard to stay ahead of increasingly complex international criminal threats like extortion. We continue to take strong action by strengthening enforcement, investing in our partners, and ensuring that those who exploit or endanger others are held accountable. This includes removing criminals and individuals who have no legal right to remain here.”

– The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety Canada

“The CBSA is working side by side with other law enforcement partners to counter extortion, disrupt criminal networks, and prevent further harm to our communities. We are committed to ensuring that individuals involved in these activities cannot find safe haven in Canada.”

– Erin O’Gorman, President, Canada Border Services Agency

Quick facts

• In 2025, the CBSA removed 23,160 inadmissible persons, 1,010 of which were subject to serious inadmissibility for serious criminality (national security, war crimes or human rights violations, organized crime, and criminality). CBSA is currently removing approximately 400 inadmissible individuals every week. Through Canada’s Border Plan, $30.4 million was allocated to strengthen the CBSA’s capacity to complete 20,000 removals annually last fiscal year and in 2026–2027.
• Under the Border Plan and Budget 2025, the CBSA will hire 1,000 new officers to strengthen border security and keep Canadians safe.
• The CBSA has approximately 530 officers dedicated to immigration enforcement, including immigration investigation, detention, hearings before the Immigration and Refugee Board and removal.

Associated links

• Enforcing removals from Canada
• Immigration removal statistics
• CBSA expands efforts to disrupt extortion networks across Canada – Canada.ca
• Canada’s sweeping bail and sentencing reforms become law – Canada.ca

Contacts

Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
1-877-761-5945

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