Merchants Warned to be on the Lookout for Extortionists

With the kick-off of the "Year of the Ram," the lunar new year, police and safety advocates are warning about the possibility of extortion from gang associates and urging merchants to report suspicious activity.

Police brass and community leaders held a press conference at the Sheng Kee Bakery on Irving Street Jan. 23 before taking to the streets to personally inform Richmond and Sunset district merchants of the increased threat.
Attending the extortion-prevention event were Supervisor Fiona Ma, Police Chief Earl Sanders, Richmond Station Capt. Sandra Tong, Taraval Station acting-captain Larry Barsetti and representatives of Safety Awareness for Everyone (SAFE) and SF Neighborhood Safety Partnership.

"I'm pleased to see everyone in the community working together to combat crime," Ma said.

During the lunar new year gang members often drop off plants as a sign of good luck. They then return later to get money for the plants. If merchants refuse to pay the gang members, bad luck often befalls them, as was the case two years ago when two Richmond District restaurants were mysteriously firebombed. Police are close to prosecuting several suspects in the cases.

Last year, there were three cases of extortion and two attempted extortions of Asian merchants.
To report an extortion attempt or suspicious activity, call the Taraval Station's tip line at 759-3120 or the Richmond Station's tip line at 666-8090.

People born in the Year of the Ram (year 4701) are said to be gentle, creative, elegant and do not like to be bound by restrictions; they prefer to use natural solutions in their quest for freedom. The upcoming year is an opportunity for achievements, resolutions and to extend and strengthen diplomatic relations.

This year's two-week lunar new year celebration culminates with a large parade in Chinatown on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 5:30 p.m. The Chinese New Year parade ends with a performance by the Golden Dragon.