February 4,2026
RED FM News Desk
Canada’s Immigration Department says filing an asylum claim “cannot and will not” shield criminals from facing justice, responding after B.C. Premier David Eby called refugee applications by extortion suspects “ludicrous.”
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said individuals who pose a threat to public safety or are accused of crimes remain subject to enforcement measures at all times.
Eby argued Tuesday that it was unreasonable for someone accused in an extortion-related shooting to seek refugee protection to avoid being sent back to India, the world’s largest democracy. He urged Parliament to quickly pass legislation to close what he described as loopholes that allow accused individuals to remain in Canada while awaiting refugee hearings.
The Canada Border Services Agency said in December that 15 foreign nationals facing extortion charges had applied for refugee status.
The Canadian Press says , IRCC said in a statement Wednesday, that if an individual is initially deemed eligible to make an asylum claim but later is suspected of criminal activity, the claim is suspended while the case proceeds through the courts. While Canada has international obligations to asylum seekers, those found inadmissible on serious grounds can be ordered removed.
The department added that it has strengthened border measures, tightened visa screening criteria, and taken steps to prevent asylum claims from being used as a shortcut to immigration.
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