The price of extortion: Montreal bar and restaurant owners face escalating threats

Montreal bar and restaurant owners are facing increasing threats of extortion. Criminal groups, sometimes posing as customers, are demanding protection money. Business owners’ fear of retaliation is rising as threats escalate from verbal intimidation to property damage. The police are aware of the situation and are increasing efforts to combat these extortions, but business owners remain concerned about their safety and the costs involved. There's a call for more support from authorities to protect small businesses.