Pictures and names = usual suspectsAt least seven people used the threat of arson to extort Winnipeg convenience stores in a string of offences last summer, police allege.
Five people have been charged and two others are wanted by investigators in connection with at least three attempts in July to extort money from retailers in exchange for protection from arson, as well as three fires that were deliberately set, Winnipeg police said Tuesday.
"A group of individuals — some from Winnipeg and others from eastern Canada — were sent to threaten and extort local business owners using arson as a weapon," Winnipeg Police Service major crimes unit Insp. Jennifer McKinnon said during a news conference.
"Each one of these fires put lives at risk, caused damage to homes and businesses and created fear and disruption in our community."
The incidents happened at locations on Selkirk Avenue, Spruce Street, Main Street and Portage Avenue from July 16-23, police said.
Fires were set at a warehouse on Spruce and two convenience stores on Selkirk. Three convenience stores — two on Selkirk, one on Main — paid money in exchange for protection from arson, police said.
There was also a theft at a retail business on Portage Avenue not far from the Perimeter Highway.
Police allege the incidents were connected to seven people, including Farhan Nabil, 29, and Jermaine Weekes, 40.
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