Burlington residents receive extortion letters from unknown sender

Numerous Burlington residents have received extortion letters from an unknown sender. Each envelope contains a threatening letter and a small sealed bag containing a white powdery substance.

The letter demands that recipients send Bitcoin currency to a quick response code (QR code) or harm would come to them and their families. Halton police indicate that there is a threat of fentanyl poisoning.

The letter also indicates that the bag of white substance is fentanyl, however police say that their analysis has revealed it is confectioner’s sugar.

These letters were delivered to the homes by Canada Post mail. Police say it appears the letters were all delivered in the morning hours of Friday December 18, 2020.

The HRPS are advising residents that these letters are an extortion attempt are asked not to send any funds. They ask that if you receive a letter to contact them at the non-emergency line at 905- 825-4747 to make a report. They will send an officer will be dispatched to attend the residence to pick up the envelope and its contents.

Police as you to not handle the letter or bag containing the white powdery substance as much as reasonably possible and to place all items in a plastic bag prior to police pickup.

Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to contact Detective Candido Moniz of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2312 or 2316.