Surrey Council Pushes Ottawa for Federal Emergency Declaration
Surrey’s city council has unanimously voted to ask the federal government to declare a state of emergency to confront a surge in extortion-related crime that officials say is overwhelming local resources. The motion, spearheaded by Mayor Brenda Locke, was approved Monday evening as part of a broader push to elevate the response to what the city calls an urgent public safety crisis.
Mayor Calls Situation a City Crisis
Mayor Locke told council members and media that extortion threats, associated violence, and related shootings have reached a level that exceeds Surrey’s capacity to manage through conventional policing alone. She emphasized that organized criminal networks exploiting fear and intimidation tactics are affecting families, business owners and community confidence throughout the city.
Locke argued that the crimes are “national and transnational in nature” and urged the federal government to either declare a state of emergency or introduce extraordinary measures of equivalent scope to help protect residents and support law enforcement.
Key Requests for Federal and Provincial Action
The motion outlines several actions Surrey wants from senior levels of government, including:
• Appointment of a federal extortion commissioner to coordinate strategy and response efforts nationwide,
• Deployment of additional RCMP organised crime units and intelligence resources,
• Fast-tracking removal or deportation proceedings for non-citizens convicted of extortion or related violent offences, and
• Examination and reform of legislative gaps that may be hindering effective policing and prosecution.
Locke stressed the focus is on collaboration, not blame, calling for all governments and agencies — including federal and provincial RCMP units — to work together on-the-ground.
Surge in Extortion Reports and Violence
Surrey Police Service has recorded dozens of extortion reports already this year, with many incidents involving threats, intimidation and shootings connected to demands for money. Police data indicate a steady increase in extortion cases since mid-2025, prompting community concern about safety and the ability of local law enforcement to keep up.
Public Pressure and Community Response
The council motion follows public rallies and growing anxiety among business owners and residents south of the Fraser River, who have called for stronger action and support from all levels of government. Community leaders at recent events have echoed calls for legislative change and increased law enforcement presence to curb the spread of extortion-related violence.
Surrey officials say the request to Ottawa reflects not only the local impact of these crimes but also concern that similar patterns may be spreading across other Canadian cities, highlighting a broader national challenge.
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