Surrey: A 48-year-old Punjabi businessman was gunned down in a brazen daytime attack in Surrey on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting a major police investigation.
According to Canadian media reports, the shooting occurred shortly after noon, around 12:05 pm local time, near the entrance of the victim’s farm property at the intersection of 176 Street and 35 Avenue. The victim has been identified as Binder Garcha, a well-known entrepreneur in the area.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene following reports of gunfire, but Garcha succumbed to his injuries before he could be taken to hospital. The incident unfolded in full daylight, raising concerns about public safety in the normally quiet rural stretch of Surrey.
The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT) has taken over the case, citing the seriousness of the crime and the need for a coordinated inquiry. Investigators later located a vehicle that had been deliberately set on fire in South Surrey, which police believe may have been used by the suspects to escape after the shooting.
As of now, no suspects have been taken into custody, and investigators have not released details regarding a possible motive. Police have appealed to the public for information, urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area to come forward.
Meanwhile, members of the Punjabi community have voiced growing unease over what they describe as a troubling rise in targeted attacks against prominent business figures. Community leaders and local sources point to a pattern of extortion threats and organised criminal activity that has increasingly placed established entrepreneurs at risk.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the killing is connected to these broader concerns, but the incident has intensified calls for stronger action to address violent crime and protect vulnerable communities across the region.
