The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Sacramento Field Office issued a warning on May 10 regarding an extortion scheme targeting individuals with familial or business ties to India.
According to the FBI, criminals are preying on Indian-origin individuals, specifically business owners by threatening them with violence and demanding large sums of money. The FBI is especially concerned because they believe these crimes are going unreported.
"We're deeply worried about the safety and financial security of our Indian community members who are being targeted," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Remily of the Sacramento FBI. "These criminals are going after hardworking, law-abiding people and using scare tactics to extort money. Reporting these attempts quickly is crucial to stopping this scheme and keeping our community safe."
In recent attempts, victims have been threatened with physical harm or even death if they don't pay up. According to the FBI individuals who refused to be bullied became victims of violence, including targeted shootings at their homes and vehicles.
While The FBI is investigating multiple cases across their 34-county jurisdiction, it has urged anyone in immediate danger to call 911. For those facing extortion threats, reporting options include contacting the local FBI field office, submitting a tip online at tips.fbi.gov, or calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).
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