Cricket Canada Official Targeted in Extortion Shootings

A former Cricket Canada board member was the target of two shootings in Calgary, connected to a deal regarding cricket tournaments and accusations of corruption. Three individuals have been arrested in relation to the extortion attempts.

Details of the Attacks

The former official, whose name is being withheld, experienced two shootings at his Calgary home earlier this year. He believes these attacks are directly related to his involvement in negotiations between Cricket Canada and an external group seeking to host sanctioned cricket tournaments.

Allegations of Manipulation

The former board member alleges that a recorded phone call was altered to falsely imply he received a kickback of $200,000 to $300,000. He maintains that the conversation actually concerned potential event management fees.

Escalating Threats and Online Claims

The threats against the former official escalated to include explicit demands for money and warnings of further violence if his demands were not met. The individual making the threats identified himself as ‘Akash Harike.’

Instagram Account Takes Responsibility

An Instagram group associated with ‘Akash Harike,’ named ‘Akash Harike 47 Group,’ claimed responsibility for the shootings. The group posted videos of the incidents online, showing shots fired at a house matching the former official’s residence.

Timeline of the Shootings

The first shooting occurred on February 22nd at approximately 2:45 a.m., and the second took place on March 4th around 5:10 a.m. Both incidents involved multiple shots fired at the house and driveway.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigation

Police investigations led to the arrest of Jaskaran Singh in Surrey, British Columbia, and Karanbir Singh in Edmonton, Alberta. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities exploring all potential connections to organized crime.

Prior Threats Received

Before the second shooting, the former board member reported receiving over 100 phone calls and numerous disappearing text messages.

Cricket Canada's Response

Cricket Canada has stated it is not directly involved in the investigation but takes matters of safety and integrity seriously. The organization has offered full cooperation if required.

Broader Allegations of Corruption

The case has brought to light wider allegations of corruption and fixing within Cricket Canada, including claims of player mistreatment and infiltration by organized crime, even extending to concerns at the World Cup level. Police are actively investigating the Instagram posts and potential organized crime links.