Police in Abbotsford, B.C., urge public to avoid speculation after targeted shootings

ABBOTSFORD — Three recent shootings in Abbotsford, B.C., including one that killed a local businessman, have prompted police to ask residents to “avoid speculation and assumptions” as they investigate.

A video message posted on social media from Abbotsford Police Chief Const. Colin Watson comes amid a surge in extortion threats and violence aimed at South Asian communities across Canada.

Watson says in the video that police want to be transparent about their investigations into cases, but “there are times when investigative priorities require discretion.”

He says residents should also treat information distributed online as “potentially inaccurate,” unless it comes directly from police.

Among the recent targeted attacks, was the shooting death of 68-year-old Darshan Sahsi in the city on Oct. 27.

Police have said Sahsi’s shooting was not tied to recent cases of violence or extortion but do believe the attack was targeted.

In September, Abbotsford police launched a local task force targeting cases of extortion, in addition to supporting a provincial team created for the same purpose.

“Together, we are working in close collaboration, and I want to assure you that meaningful progress is being made,” Watson says.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 12, 2025.