Chief Colin Watson of the Abbotsford Police Department (AbbyPD) is set to address the pressing issue of ongoing extortion in a news conference on Tuesday morning. He will emphasize the critical need for improved collaboration among government levels to tackle systemic challenges within the justice system. Chief Watson will urge for enhancements to Canada’s Criminal Code to modernize laws, enhance disclosure practices, and improve access to electronic communications data. The statement highlights the importance of dedicated resources across the justice system to effectively combat serious crimes like extortion.
Additionally, Chief Watson stresses the urgency for swift and coordinated action, calling on elected officials to engage directly with local police leaders and work collaboratively to implement necessary changes for community safety.
In a similar tone, Surrey Police Service (SPS) Chief Norm Lipinski has echoed Watson’s concerns, citing a rise in extortion cases in the Surrey area. Lipinski has requested additional officers and support from the province to address the escalating crisis, assuring the public of ongoing efforts to ensure community safety.
Police in B.C., particularly in Surrey, Delta, and Abbotsford, have received numerous reports of extortion-related crimes, including incidents of gunfire since the start of the year. These developments precede a national policing summit on extortions scheduled later this month in Surrey, bringing together representatives from various provinces.
Meanwhile, the federal Conservative Party is proposing a motion in Parliament to restrict non-citizens convicted of serious crimes from making refugee claims and to prevent asylum claims during ongoing court proceedings. The motion aims to address concerns over rising extortion cases and perceived shortcomings in bail laws.
B.C. Premier David Eby and several mayors have joined the call for tighter regulations around asylum claims, aligning with the efforts to strengthen the immigration and justice systems.