Indian-origin teens pose as queers, target 2SLGBTQ+ members in Canada, detained
"On Saturday, May 31, two suspects were initially arrested. However, as the investigation progressed, a total of six suspects were identified. Investigators now believe that the suspects relied on false pretences to target South Asians, including members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and lure them into meetings," the police said in a statement issued on Wednesday.The earlier arrested persons were identified as 20-year-old Abhijot Singh from Brampton, while 21-year-old Ridhampreet Singh is from Mississauga.SUSPECTS PORTRAYED THEMSELVES AS MEMBERS OF 2SLGBTQ+ COMMUNITYOn Friday, July 4, police executed search warrants at several residences in the Peel region. As a result, 18-year-old Hardil Singh Mehrok of Brampton and two male youths aged 16 and 17 were detained. All three individuals have been charged with two counts of kidnapping and three counts of robbery, according to the statement.Tyler Bell, spokesperson for Peel Police, said the suspects portrayed themselves as members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community to create a sense of trust among victims, CBC News reported.He noted that while Snapchat was the primary platform used to contact victims, other social media platforms may have also been involved.ANOTHER SUSPECT STILL AT LARGE IN VIOLENT ROBBERIES PROBEThe police said that an arrest warrant has been issued for 20-year-old Preetpal Kooner of Mississauga for the same offences.The spokesperson said the investigation is "still very active" and police could potentially identify more offenders and charges over time, CBC reported.Investigators believe there may be additional victims who have not come forward out of fear, the police added.A string of attacks highlights the growing threat to South Asian community members in the area.Earlier in May, three men of Indian origin were arrested in Brampton after allegedly opening fire inside a business establishment in an attempt to carry out extortion, the PRP said. Authorities stated that the incident is part of a broader pattern of crimes targeting South Asian-owned businesses in the region.- Ends
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Vedanta Group had denied the claims in the Viceroy Report, stating that the report is a malicious combination of selective misinformation and baseless allegations to discredit the Group.
