Elija Rain named Lower Mainland RCMP Commander, pledging stronger community ties and enhanced public safety across the region.
Experienced Leader Steps Into New Role
The RCMP in British Columbia has a new face at the helm. Assistant Commissioner Elija Rain has officially been named the Lower Mainland District Commander, the force announced Friday, February 6. With a career spanning 30 years entirely in the Lower Mainland, Rain brings deep local experience and a hands-on approach to policing.
A Career Built Across the Region
Rain’s journey through the RCMP is both extensive and diverse. He has served in operational, investigational, and administrative roles, including postings with Ridge Meadows RCMP, the Emergency Response Team (ERT), the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT), and as Officer-in-Charge of Investigative Services for Surrey RCMP. Most recently, he oversaw specialized units across all four BC districts, managing teams focused on everything from provincial homicides and child exploitation to anti-corruption and hate crimes investigations.
He also played a key role in establishing the province’s Counter Human Trafficking Unit, now a vital part of BC’s major crime efforts.
Education and Global Insight
Rain’s leadership skills are backed by strong academic credentials. He holds an undergraduate degree in leadership and a master’s in international executive development in policing. Always seeking growth, he has completed numerous international training programs, including the FBI’s elite 10-week course for international law enforcement leaders.
Commitment to Community and Safety
“As the new Lower Mainland District Commander, my priority is to strengthen and maintain the strong relationships we have with the municipalities we serve,” Rain said. “I am committed to advancing public safety through operational leadership and effective administrative policing. Having spent my entire career in this region, I understand the strengths of our communities and what it takes to keep them resilient.”
He emphasized his focus on ensuring that detachments and integrated teams across the Lower Mainland have the resources and support necessary to protect the public effectively.
Looking Ahead
With Rain at the helm, the Lower Mainland RCMP aims to continue building trust within communities while enhancing safety initiatives. Residents can expect sustained efforts to address crime and support vulnerable populations, guided by a leader who knows the region inside and out.
