Montreal’s bar and restaurant owners are taking a stand against a troubling resurgence of extortion attempts linked to organized crime—a shadow that has periodically darkened our city’s vibrant nightlife scene for decades.
As someone who’s covered Montreal’s cultural landscape for years, I’ve watched our hospitality industry evolve through numerous challenges. This latest threat feels particularly concerning as business owners are still recovering from pandemic-related hardships.
“We’re seeing patterns reminiscent of the 1980s and early 90s,” Pierre Thibault, president of the Quebec Bar Owners Association, told me during our interview at a well-established downtown establishment. “Except now, the methods have evolved with technology. What hasn’t changed is the fear.”
According to police reports shared with local media, at least 13 documented extortion cases have been reported since January, though Thibault believes the actual number is significantly higher. Many owners remain reluctant to come forward, fearing reprisals or damage to their businesses’ reputations.
One veteran restaurateur on the Plateau, speaking on condition of anonymity, described receiving intimidating visits demanding “protection payments” of $1,000 monthly. “They present it as insurance—protection against ‘accidents’ that might happen,” he explained, visibly uncomfortable even discussing the topic.
The Montreal police (SPVM) has established a dedicated task force to address these incidents, but community leaders argue more resources are needed. Mayor Valérie Plante acknowledged the situation during yesterday’s press briefing, promising “coordinated action” while encouraging affected businesses to report incidents.
Montreal’s hospitality sector employs roughly 76,000 people and contributes approximately $4 billion annually to our local economy, according to Tourism Montreal’s latest economic impact study. This vital industry has weathered numerous storms—from pandemic closures to labor shortages—and now faces this additional pressure.
The new wave of extortion attempts appears strategically timed as businesses rebuild their financial stability post-pandemic. The Quebec government recently announced it would work with law enforcement to develop enhanced protective measures for vulnerable establishments.
“These criminals are calculating,” explains criminologist Maria Mourani from Université de Montréal. “They’re targeting businesses they know have limited cash reserves after the pandemic but are showing signs of recovery. It’s predatory behavior exploiting economic vulnerability.”
What’s particularly concerning is how these operations have modernized. While traditional intimidation tactics persist, suspects now also employ digital harassment, negative online review campaigns, and even hacking of business systems to pressure owners into compliance.
For our city’s iconic nightlife districts—from Crescent Street to Saint-Laurent Boulevard—these threats risk undermining decades of cultural development that have made Montreal internationally renowned for its hospitality scene.
As I walked through the Quartier Latin yesterday evening, the contrast was striking—vibrant terrasses filled with patrons enjoying our brief summer season, while behind closed doors, some owners confided they’re struggling with difficult decisions about whether to pay extortionists or risk the consequences.
Provincial authorities have proposed establishing an anonymous reporting system specifically for extortion attempts, along with increased financial support for businesses that cooperate with investigations. However, industry representatives argue implementation timelines remain too vague.
“We need concrete action now, not just promises,” Thibault emphasized. “Every week of delay means more businesses facing impossible choices.”
The deep interconnection between our city’s identity and its hospitality culture makes this not just a criminal matter but a threat to Montreal’s cultural fabric. Our world-famous festivals, nightlife, and culinary scene all depend on a thriving, safe environment for both owners and patrons.
Having reported on this industry for nearly two decades, I’ve witnessed how resilient our local entrepreneurs can be. But this challenge requires a coordinated response from all levels of government, law enforcement, and community support.
As this situation develops, LCN will continue monitoring both the incidents and the official response. For business owners experiencing intimidation, the SPVM has established a confidential reporting line at 514-280-2222.
Our city has overcome organized crime influence before, and with proper resources and community solidarity, we can ensure these shadows don’t dim the lights of Montreal’s celebrated nightlife once again.
