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Prominent Sikh builder shot dead in Edmonton, Canada

Extortion calls and fear grip Indian community; Authorities investigate possible motives

Representative image / Unsplash

Boota Singh Gill, a prominent builder and head of the Guru Nanak Sikh Temple in Edmonton, Canada, was fatally shot on Apr. 9, according to Canadian news agencies. The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) homicide investigators are leading the investigation into Gill's murder case.

EPS responded to a report of a shooting in the area of Cavanagh Boulevard SW and Cherniak Way SW. Upon arrival, officers discovered three injured males. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) determined that two males, aged 49 and 57, were deceased, while a 51-year-old male sustained serious injuries, as stated in the official press release by Edmonton Police.

Following the incident, police issued an advisory urging citizens in the area to avoid Cavanagh Blvd SW and 30 Avenue SW while the investigation was underway. The police assured that there were no immediate concerns for public safety, and officers had secured the scene.

Reports suggest that Gill had received extortion calls prior to his death. This incident adds to a series of similar occurrences targeting individuals in the Indian community across Canada. Responding to queries during a regular media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed concern over the situation.

"People receiving extortion calls, especially Indian nationals, is a matter of serious concern," Jaiswal stated. He highlighted ongoing issues between India and Canada, including the recent attack on a temple. Canadian authorities had investigated the temple intrusion, eventually determining that the intruder was of unsound mind.

The motive behind Gill's murder remains under investigation, and authorities have not disclosed any suspects or arrests in connection with the case. The incident has sparked fear and unease within the local community, prompting heightened vigilance and security measures.

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