Update:
The Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate a series of extortion and arson incidents targeting convenience stores in July 2025.
As the investigation progressed, investigators learned that 26-year-old Jahaid Hossain MARUF of Kitchener, Ontario (previously arrested in October 2025) was involved in the planning, organization, and orchestration of the extortions and arsons. In consultation with Manitoba Prosecution Service, new charges were authorized and a warrant for his arrest was issued:
On April 23, 2026, investigators attended the Winnipeg Remand Centre and re-arrested MARUF on the strength of the warrant. He is charged with the following additional offences:
- Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence (Extortion) x 5
- Arson Causing Damage to Property
- Arson with Disregard for Human Life
MARUF remains in custody.
The following two suspects remain at large with Canada Wide warrants still in effect:
Farhan NABIL (29) is wanted for Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence x 2 – Arson, and Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence x 2 – Extortion.
Jermaine WEEKES (40) is wanted for Extortion x 2.
The Major Crimes Unit continues to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 204-986-6219 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 204-786-TIPS or winnipegcrimestoppers.org
As previously released:
In July 2025, the Winnipeg Police Service Major Crimes Unit began an investigation regarding extortion, arsons, and theft related to retail businesses in the Winnipeg. As a result of the ongoing investigation, police have arrested five people and are seeking two additional suspects, who are currently wanted on outstanding warrants.
Between July 16 and July 23, 2025, the Winnipeg Police Service responded to the following effected locations:
Arson:
- A warehouse in the 1300 Spruce Street
- A convenience store in the 800 block of Selkirk Avenue
- A convenience store in the 600 block of Selkirk Avenue
Extortion:
- A convenience store in the 1000 block of Main Street was extorted for money in exchange for protection from arson
- A convenience store in the 800 block of Selkirk Avenue was threatened with extortion of money in exchange for protection from arson
- A convenience store in the 400 block of Selkirk Avenue was extorted for money in exchange for protection from arson
Theft:
- A retail business in the 3600 block of Portage Avenue reported a theft of $120 in merchandise
The Major Crimes Unit determined all the incidents to be connected and seven individuals were identified. Five suspects were arrested.
Cora Renae PENNER (32) has been charged with Extortion x 2. She was released on an Undertaking.
James Dean HERDA (33) has been charged with Extortion x 2, Disobey Court Order x 4, and Operate a Motor Vehicle while Prohibited. He was detained in custody.
Jahaid Hossain MARUF (26) of Kitchener, Ontario, has been charged with Extortion x 2, and detained in custody. He was detained in custody.
Jerry Marcel MARTIN (49) of Montreal, Quebec, has been charged with Arson Disregard for Human Life, Arson Causing Damage to Property, Extortion x 2, and Theft Under $5000. He was detained in custody.
Lorenzo LUCAS (65) of Montreal, Quebec, has been charged with Arson Disregard for Human Life, Arson Causing Damage to Property, Extortion x 2, Theft Under $5000, and Identity Theft. He was detained in custody.