Police have charged, Harwinder Singh, left, and Riya Riya.

Two Brampton people have been charged after Peel Regional Police say an online dating setup led to a victim being threatened and extorted of $6,000.

Investigators with the 21 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau are now looking for additional victims who may have been targeted similarly.

Police say the investigation began in July after a victim was contacted via a messaging platform by someone who used the name Manisha Sharma. The victim agreed to meet the person in August at a residential basement apartment near Torbram Road and Peter Robertson Boulevard in Brampton.

According to police, shortly after the victim arrived, a male suspect entered the room. The victim was allegedly threatened and forced to transfer $6,000 by e-transfer.

Following an investigation, police identified the suspects as 35-year-old Harwinder Singh and 23-year-old Riya Riya, both of Brampton.

The two were arrested and charged on Aug. 12 with two counts each of forcible confinement and extortion, as well as robbery.

Singh was also charged with uttering threats.

Both suspects were held in custody pending a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice.

Police believe there could be other victims and are asking anyone who experienced a similar incident after arranging a casual date online to come forward.

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Investigators are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who believes they may have been targeted through a similar dating or messaging setup.

Peel police say anyone targeted by extortion, or anyone with information about an extortion incident, should report it to police. People in an emergency should call 911, while non-emergency reports can be made by calling 905-453-3311.

Police are urging potential victims not to be embarrassed about coming forward, as information from additional victims could help investigators determine whether there are more incidents connected to the suspects.


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