Man accused in extortion shooting as well as importing 'doda' and firearms: court records

A Calgary man accused in an extortion shooting is facing five other sets of charges, including offences connected to allegations he imported firearms and more than 65 kilograms of an opioid called "doda," CBC News has learned. 

Court records also show that Gursewak Singh — who faces six sets of charges and a total of 32 offences — is also accused of confronting his alleged extortion victim with a gun in the parking lot of the Dashmesh Culture Centre days after the man's home and vehicles were shot up.

Singh, 32, appeared in three courtrooms Friday as his cases were put over one week by defence lawyer Jim Lutz. 

Court records from Calgary police and the Canada Border Services Agency show Singh is accused in several incidents.

The Calgary Police Service announced charges against Singh on Tuesday.

3 incidents in less than a week

On Sept. 19, a man living in the northeast community of Saddle Ridge reported that two of his vehicles and the exterior of his home had been hit by bullets.

On Sept. 23, the alleged victim called police to report he'd received phone calls demanding money, citing the shooting. 

The next day, Singh was arrested in the parking lot of the Dashmesh Cultural Centre. He is accused of waving around a gun while arguing with the same man from the alleged extortion.

Coutts border crossing

Singh was free on bail at the time of the first two incidents after he was arrested at the Coutts border crossing on Feb. 2, 2024. 

On that date, according to border officials, Singh was attempting to smuggle drugs and firearms into Canada.

Canada Border Services documents allege Singh was in possession of 66.5 kg of papaver somniferum, also known as "doda" or "poor man's heroin." It's a narcotic derived from the opium poppy.

The documents also show Singh is accused of trying to get five guns into the country.

Court records also show that in July, police laid four firearms and drug charges against Singh stemming from alleged incidents in April.