Arrests made, enforcement stepped up in Surrey and Delta following shootings

VANCOUVER – Five people have been arrested and charges have been laid in connection to the recent string of shootings in Surrey and Delta.

The Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-BC), Surrey RCMP, and Delta Police have been working together to disrupt and dismantle the groups believed to be involved. They have also been able to identify witnesses.

To date, four separate search warrants have been executed and five people have been arrested. Arman Dhatt, Pardip Brar and Rajvir Sunner are all facing numerous charges with more being considered. Two other men were arrested and released pending further investigation.

Since March 9, the Surrey RCMP and Delta Police Department have responded to 30 shootings, with 15 of those believed to be between two groups who are thought to be in competition over the street-level drug trade.

Police say the victims remain uncooperative and it has now become apparent that vehicles believed to be involved in the crimes are fleeing from the police. Since April 1, 40 vehicles have failed to stop for police and officers do not pursue them if it will endanger the lives of the public. On one occasion, a CFSEU-BC marked car was rammed by a suspect vehicle to avoid the traffic stop. Six vehicles have been captured and seized as a result of failing to stop.

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“We are continuing to work together to ensure community safety and that those engaging in this behaviour will be held accountable. These incidents remain our top priority and focus,” said A/Chief Lyle Beaudoin in a release.

The agencies have also redeployed to areas of the city where it is believed there will be more violence. Since April 1, officers have checked 499 vehicles, seized 21, issued 198 violation tickets, seized 13 weapons and $23,730.

“Police are doing everything they can to eliminate this threat,” said Chief Superintendent Kevin Hackett, Officer in Charge of the CFSEU-BC. “We are also collaborating with the community on many levels to ensure that we utilize all of the tools and resources available, including new and innovative approaches.”

A tip line set up to gather information has generated 131 calls, with 14 being of high value. Police ask anyone with information on any of the shootings to call the tip line at 604-915-6566.