The B.C. government says it welcomes the federal government listing the India -based Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity in the country.

Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree announced the designation in a news release Monday , saying it will help Canadian security, intelligence and police agencies.

He said it gives the government the power to seize property, vehicles and money.

RCMP and police agencies in B.C. have linked the Bishnoi gang to extortion threats in South Asian communities in the province, particularly in Surrey.

Surrey police confirmed on Monday that they are investigating 48 threats and 29 extortion-related shootings so far this year.

“Extortion targeting South Asian community members in Surrey and throughout the Lower Mainland is absolutely unacceptable

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