Peel Regional Police are seeking additional victims following an extortion investigation involving an alleged online dating setup in Brampton.
Police say the victim was contacted in July on a messaging platform by someone using the name Manisha Sharma. After agreeing to meet in person in August, the victim went to a basement apartment near Torbram Road and Peter Robertson Boulevard.
Shortly after the victim arrived, a male suspect allegedly entered the room and threatened the victim before extorting $6,000 through an e-transfer.
Following an investigation, police identified the suspects as 35-year-old Harwinder Singh and 23-year-old Riya Riya, both from Brampton. They were arrested on August 12 and charged with two counts of forcible confinement, robbery and two counts of extortion.
Singh also faces an utter threats charge. Both suspects were held in custody pending a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims who were targeted under the pretext of a casual date. Police are urging anyone with similar experiences or information about the case to come forward.
Anyone with information can contact the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-2121, ext. 2133.