The Edmonton Police Service has released a number of surveillance videos in hopes of identifying suspects involved in Project Gaslight, an extortion series targeting members of the South Asian community. The investigation, which has been ongoing since October, has seen 34 events related to this specific extortion. Despite the incidents involving shootings and arsons, no injuries have been reported. However, property damage totaling approximately $10 million has occurred as a result of these events. The police are urging the public to come forward with any information they may have in order to identify the remaining suspects involved in the crimes.
One of the surveillance videos released by EPS shows three suspects getting out of a vehicle with a gas can on November 6, 2023, in the area of 16th Avenue and 12th Street. The suspects are then seen running back to the same vehicle. Police are seeking information on the identities of these individuals as well as any details about their activities on November 6. Another video captures three suspects approaching a home on Meadowview Way in Leduc on November 24, 2023, with a gas can. Again, police are asking for assistance in identifying these suspects and providing information on their activities on November 24.
On December 14, 2023, surveillance footage from a home in the area of 42nd Avenue and 38A Street in Beaumont shows two suspects breaking into a home, starting a fire, and then fleeing the scene. Police are specifically looking to identify a suspect carrying a red jerry can, wearing white shoes, and a grey hooded sweatshirt. Another video from December 31, 2023, captures a suspect driving an SUV arriving at a home in the area of 16th Avenue and 12th Street. Shortly after the suspect leaves, smoke can be seen coming from the building. Police are seeking information on both the suspect’s vehicle as well as a white, four-door Mercedes with heavily tinted windows that was seen in the area prior to the fire.
In a video from January 28, 2024, two men are seen purchasing a gas can at a Walmart on Parsons Road. Police are seeking to identify the suspect in a camouflage jacket, while the other suspect has already been identified. On the same day, a man carrying a gas can is seen entering and leaving a 7/11 on Saddleback Road before filling the can at the pumps. This suspect has also been identified, and police are requesting information on his activities on that date. The Edmonton Police Service has asked anyone with information on the suspects shown in the videos or details related to the crime series to contact them immediately via email or phone.
The release of these surveillance videos is part of ongoing efforts by the Edmonton Police Service to investigate the extortion series targeting the South Asian community. By sharing these videos with the public, they hope to gather information that can help identify the remaining suspects involved in the crimes. With incidents involving arson and shootings resulting in significant property damage, it is essential for the community to come forward with any information they may have to assist in the investigation and bring those responsible to justice. The police are urging individuals to report any suspicious activity or information they may have on the suspects to aid in the resolution of the case.
The Edmonton Police Service has been working diligently to review surveillance footage obtained from various crime scenes connected to Project Gaslight, as well as footage from stores and gas stations where suspects purchased items used in the crimes. By identifying as many suspects as possible and releasing the videos to the public, they hope to fill in the gaps in the investigation and gather additional information on the suspects’ activities. The collaboration between law enforcement and the community is crucial in solving these crimes and preventing future incidents. By coming together and sharing information, the community can help ensure the safety and security of all residents, as well as hold those responsible for the crimes accountable for their actions.
