A Winnipeg Police Service shoulder badge is seen at the Public Information Office in Winnipeg, on September 2, 2021. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski)
Winnipeg police have arrested five people and are searching for two others following a series of arsons, extortions and thefts targeting retail businesses across the city.
The investigation began in July 2025 after fires and extortion attempts were reported at several locations, including convenience stores on Selkirk Avenue and a warehouse on Spruce Street. Police say businesses were threatened or extorted for money in exchange for protection from arson.
Five suspects have been charged, including two men from Montreal and one from Ontario. Charges include arson, extortion, theft and related offences. Two of the accused remain in custody.
Police are also seeking 29-year-old Farhan Nabil, who is wanted on Canada-wide warrants for conspiracy to commit arson and extortion. Jermaine Weekes, 40, is also wanted for two counts of extortion.
