Surrey ( Rajeev Sharma) : A deadly daytime shooting in Surrey has once again raised alarm over public safety, with Linda Annis warning that the city’s police force is under growing pressure. Annis said the transition to the Surrey Police Service now in its eighth year has faced delays that have slowed recruitment and left officers stretched as violent incidents and extortion cases increase. She also criticized Mayor Brenda Locke over past decisions, including halting hiring and reducing the police budget.
Highlighting a significant gap, Annis noted Surrey has about 800 officers compared to nearly 1,400 in Vancouver, despite similar population levels and a much larger geographic area to patrol.
She is calling for urgent action, including hiring more officers, expanding camera surveillance, and seeking additional time and support from the province. Annis stressed that ensuring public safety must remain the city’s top priority as concerns continue to grow.
