Alberta invests nearly $8 million to combat organized crime

By Your Southwest Media Group

Alberta's government is putting nearly $8 million toward the fight against organized crime, extortion and gang activity across the province.

The one-time grant funding will go to four agencies for specialized investigative tools, including surveillance, intelligence and digital forensic equipment. The money is meant to help police investigate, disrupt and dismantle criminal networks in urban, rural and remote communities, and to improve co-ordination among municipal, provincial and federal agencies.

Part of the funding is aimed at stopping extortion targeting members of the South Asian business community in Edmonton and Calgary.

"Organized crime doesn't stop at city limits, and neither does our work," said Mike Ellis, minister of public safety and emergency services. "This funding ensures police forces across Alberta can stay ahead of evolving threats and respond quickly and decisively to keep families and communities safe."

Police leaders said the investment helps them keep pace with crime that is increasingly co-ordinated, technology-driven and crossing borders.

"Extortion-related shootings are a prime example of how organized crime has evolved and transcended borders," said Blayne Eliuk, director of technology and investigative support at the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams.

For business owners targeted by extortion, the support marked a turning point.

"No business owner or family should ever have to live under the shadow of fear and intimidation," said Kal Toor, co-owner of Active Homes. "When our leaders stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us, it gives us the strength to speak out, stand firm, and ensure our communities remain safe and resilient."

The funding breaks down as follows: $2,245,550 for the Edmonton Police Service, $2,240,535 for the Calgary Police Service, $2 million for the Alberta RCMP and $1,505,000 for ALERT.