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A Surrey Police Service patch is seen on an officer's uniform in Surrey, B.C., on Friday, November 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck A man is recovering in hospital after being shot during a confrontation at Bear Creek Park in Surrey on Saturday night. Surrey Police say the victim, who was driven to hospital by friends, suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The shooting happened around 9 p.m. in the parking lot near 88th Avenue and 138A Street, following an altercation between two groups of people. Investigators say the suspect fled the scene in a grey sedan and are asking anyone with dashcam or security footage to come forward. What Happened at Bear Creek Park The Surrey Police Service (SPS) responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 9 p.m. on September 13, 2025. Officers arrived at the Bear Creek Park parking lot to find that a man had already been transported to hospital by friends. According to police, the shooting began after an altercation between two groups of individuals in the area. The victim remains in hospital with serious injuries, but they are not considered life-threatening. Suspect Description Police have released a description of the suspect: South Asian adult male Short beard Wearing a black turban Dressed in dark-coloured clothing Last seen leaving the area in a grey sedan Police Statement Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton confirmed that investigators do not believe the shooting is linked to extortion cases or the ongoing B.C. gang conflict. The SPS is urging anyone with information, including video from nearby security cameras or dashcams, to contact investigators. Witnesses are asked to call 604-599-0502 and reference file 2025-79990 (SP). Surrey Shooting: Bear Creek Park and Community Safety Bear Creek Park is one of Surrey’s largest and busiest public spaces, home to sports fields, walking trails, gardens, and cultural events. While it is typically a family-friendly destination, this shooting adds to growing community concerns over violent incidents across Surrey in recent years. Police emphasize that while there is no indication of a broader threat to the public, residents should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Stay safe.

If you live in Metro Vancouver, you’ve probably felt the squeeze of rising costs. But according to a new MoneySense report, one city in the region stands out as especially tough for residents trying to maintain a “comfortable” lifestyle. The findings show just how much income you’d need each year to cover rent, groceries, transportation, and everyday expenses — and the number may surprise you. What the MoneySense Report Found About Metro Vancouver City MoneySense analyzed what it takes for a single renter to live comfortably in cities across Canada with populations over 50,000. The calculations included: Rent, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, and leisure costs Income taxes (20%–25% of gross income for middle earners) Savings targets of 10%–15% An added 10%–20% “comfort margin” for unexpected expenses The results paint a clear picture of just how high the bar is set — with one city in particular ranking among the worst in the country. Coquitlam, BC Coquitlam Tops the List in Metro Vancouver If you call Coquitlam home, you’ll need one of the highest incomes in the country just to live comfortably. According to MoneySense, a single renter in Coquitlam must earn $104,928 per year to maintain a reasonable standard of living. That works out to an average of $4,372 per month just to cover the basics and a small margin for savings. What does that mean for you? Coquitlam ranks as the most expensive city in Metro Vancouver for a comfortable life, even edging out Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Burnaby in MoneySense’s national list. Even though Coquitlam isn’t usually the first city people think of when it comes to high living costs, the numbers show that residents here face some of the toughest financial pressures in the region. North Vancouver, BC North Vancouver’s High Cost of Rent and Living North Vancouver comes in just behind Coquitlam, making it the second least comfortable city in Metro Vancouver and the fifth worst in Canada. To live comfortably here, MoneySense estimates you’d need an annual income of $103,512. That translates to about $4,313 per month in living costs. If you’re renting in North Vancouver, the numbers won’t surprise you. North Vancouver has also been identified by Rentals.ca as one of the most expensive rental markets in Canada. For residents, that means even a six-figure income may not go as far as you expect once rent, groceries, transportation, and taxes are accounted for. Burnaby, BC Vancouver vs Burnaby – Nearly Identical Living Costs If you live in Vancouver itself, MoneySense estimates you’ll need an annual income of $102,576, or about $4,274 per month, to live comfortably. Just across the border in Burnaby, the number barely changes — residents need $102,312 per year, or roughly $4,263 per month. For you, that means whether you’re renting in Vancouver or Burnaby, the day-to-day costs are almost the same. The difference between the two cities is just $11 per month, making them essentially tied when it comes to affordability. No matter which side of Boundary Road you’re on, maintaining a comfortable life still requires a six-figure income. Prince George, BC Prince George: The Most Affordable City in BC Not every city in BC demands a six-figure income. If you’re living in Prince George, the cost of comfort looks very different. MoneySense found that a single renter there needs about $80,664 per year, or $3,361 per month, to cover expenses and maintain a comfortable lifestyle. For those living outside Metro Vancouver, that gap is striking. More than $20,000 less in annual income compared to Coquitlam or North Vancouver. The difference shows just how dramatically location can shape what “comfortable” really means, even within the same province. Toronto, Ontario Ontario Cities Rank as the Least Comfortable in Canada Across Canada, the very top of MoneySense’s list is dominated by Ontario. The report shows that Whitby, Milton, and Richmond Hill are the three least affordable cities in the country when it comes to maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. Right behind them is Coquitlam, making it the fourth least comfortable city in Canada and the highest ranked in BC. The financial strain of a six-figure income requirement isn’t unique to Metro Vancouver. Major Ontario suburbs face the same reality, with living costs pushing the “comfortable” threshold well over $100,000 a year. Worried about more than just the cost of living? Check out our guide to the Most Dangerous Cities in Vancouver  and learn which areas locals say you should be cautious in.

A protester waves a flag banned in parts of Europe. In Canada, that same image could soon be illegal. The Combatting Hate Act (Bill C-9) aims to shield communities from hate symbols and intimidation. Yet as Parliament debates its reach, critics warn it could test the limits of Bill C-9 Canada free speech, a right protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The question dividing lawmakers and civil-liberties groups is simple: how far can a democracy go to silence hate before it begins to silence dissent? What Bill C-9 Means for Free Speech in Canada Introduced in September 2025, Bill C-9 proposes new criminal offences targeting hate symbols and hate-motivated crimes. It also makes it illegal to block or intimidate people entering cultural or religious spaces. A key change removes the long-standing rule that required the Attorney General’s consent before launching hate-propaganda prosecutions. Supporters say this streamlines justice. Opponents argue it strips away a vital check on power that prevented overreach in expressive cases. “Silencing hate should never mean silencing dissent.” How Canada’s Combatting Hate Act Changes Existing Law Canada already criminalizes the wilful promotion of hatred under section 319 of the Criminal Code, a section that has stood for decades. Bill C-9 expands that framework by criminalizing the public display of hate or terrorism symbols and by creating a new hate-motivated offence. For example, publicly displaying flags or logos tied to terrorist groups could become a stand-alone crime. The government says this closes loopholes. Legal experts counter that overlapping offences risk double-counting hate motives and confusing prosecutors when applying penalties. Free Expression and the Charter: Where Courts Draw the Line Section 2(b) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees freedom of expression. But that freedom has limits when speech promotes hatred against identifiable groups. The Supreme Court of Canada’s landmark Whatcott (2013) decision confirmed that only speech reaching the level of detestation or vilification can be restricted. Offense or harsh criticism alone remain protected. Bill C-9 will be tested against this same benchmark if passed. Civil Liberties Concerns Over Bill C-9 The Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) and other advocacy groups warn that vague wording could criminalize legitimate expression. Their open letter to Parliament argues that without precise definitions, “hate or terrorism symbols” could capture peaceful protest, satire, or educational use. They also highlight enforcement risks. Without the Attorney General’s oversight, prosecutors may advance more borderline cases. Some experts worry that marginalized communities—already subject to uneven policing—could face increased scrutiny under the new law. “When the law’s reach is uncertain, caution turns into silence.” Why Court Precedent Still Matters Canadian courts have repeatedly protected free speech when the law overreaches. Cases like Keegstra and Whatcott show that hate-speech limits must be narrow and justified under section 1 of the Charter. The government’s Charter Statement for Bill C-9 argues that the proposed offences meet this standard. It claims the law targets only deliberate promotion of hatred and leaves room for debate, art, religion, and journalism. Civil-rights experts remain cautious, noting that courts, not legislatures, decide what counts as “reasonable limits.” How Bill C-9 Could Affect Online Speech in Canada One of the bill’s most complex questions is what counts as a “public display.” A swastika spray-painted on a school is clearly public, but what about a meme on social media or an image in a digital news article? Online platforms blur the line between private and public space. If a meme or emoji depicting a banned symbol is considered a “display,” Canadians could face charges for content shared in political or educational contexts. The government has not yet clarified how digital enforcement would work. Quick Guide: What Counts as Hate Propaganda in Canada Section 319(1):  Public incitement of hatred likely to lead to a breach of peace Section 319(2):  Wilful promotion of hatred against an identifiable group Section 319(2.1):  Wilful promotion of antisemitism (added 2023) Defences:  Truth, religious opinion expressed in good faith, and public interest discussion What This Means for You If Bill C-9 passes, Canadians may see new restrictions on how hate-related symbols appear in public and online. Protesters, educators, and journalists will need to understand when context offers protection—and when it might not. The outcome will shape how far Canada’s justice system can go in limiting hate speech without infringing on the right to free expression. It’s a test of how a democracy enforces respect while preserving liberty. The Policy Debate Ahead Parliamentary committees are expected to refine the bill’s definitions before a final vote. Lawmakers will debate whether to include contextual exemptions and whether to restore oversight for expressive offences. Civil-liberties groups urge stronger safeguards and clearer language. Others argue the Combatting Hate Act simply updates Canada’s laws to reflect modern forms of extremism. The final version of the bill will reveal which vision wins. “Bill C-9 could redefine what ‘public’ means in the digital age.” Canada stands at a crossroads between protecting communities and preserving the freedom to speak. Bill C-9 may become one of the most consequential legal tests of expression in recent years. Whether it achieves balance—or oversteps—will depend on how Parliament and the courts interpret its reach. Also Read : Combatting Hate Act: Canada’s Bill C-9 Explained Questions About Bill C-9 and Free Speech in Canada What is Bill C-9 in Canada? Bill C-9, known as the Combatting Hate Act, is proposed legislation that would make it illegal to publicly display hate or terrorism symbols, add a hate-motivated offence, and prohibit intimidation at religious or cultural spaces. Does Bill C-9 limit free speech in Canada? The government says it does not, but critics argue vague definitions could restrict lawful protest, satire, or artistic expression protected under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. When will Bill C-9 become law? As of late 2025, the bill is in early stages of debate. It must still pass committee review, third reading, and Senate approval before becoming law.

A Coquitlam teacher faced public discipline for something most people would consider private: taking a quick vape in a staff washroom. The Coquitlam teacher vaping incident, according to the BC Commissioner for Teacher Regulation, resulted in a three-day suspension without pay and a public reprimand. The backlash was divided between “rules are rules” and “who cares.” The case has stirred debate about what really matters in schools: protecting student health, preserving professional standards, or policing adult choices. Beneath it all lies a question that affects anyone working in a rule-heavy environment. When does policy protect, and when does it overreach? What Happened To The Coquitlam Teacher Vaping In School In 2024, a Grade 1 teacher in School District 43 (Coquitlam) was disciplined after vaping in a staff washroom attached to her classroom, according to the regulator’s published summary. The teacher did not vape directly in front of students, but the behavior still violated both district and provincial policies. The BC Commissioner for Teacher Regulation found that her actions breached professional conduct standards. The teacher accepted the findings, received a three-day suspension without pay, and a public reprimand was issued. The case quickly became a talking point online about whether the punishment matched the act. What The Law Says In BC Schools BC’s Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act prohibits using or holding an activated e-cigarette in or on school property. The ban applies to everyone: students, staff, and visitors, and covers buildings, parking lots, and even vehicles on site. The law also holds school boards and administrators responsible if vaping occurs under their supervision unless they can show they took reasonable steps to prevent it. School District 43’s Administrative Procedure 171 enforces the same rule. All district property, vehicles, and events are smoke and vape-free zones. The rule leaves little room for discretion. But is it always fair to treat a quiet vape the same way as lighting a cigarette in class? The Science vs the Stigma Around Vaping Vaping is not harmless, but it also is not the same as smoking, and that is where public opinion splits. Authoritative reviews from the U.S. National Academies and summaries from the CDC report that e-cigarette aerosol generally contains fewer toxic chemicals than cigarette smoke, yet can include fine particles, nicotine, and trace carbonyls. Indoors, those particles can build up temporarily before dissipating. For most adults, this level of exposure is unlikely to cause harm, but for children or people with asthma, even small irritants matter. To date, there is no evidence that passive vaping causes nicotine addiction, but health agencies advise precaution in shared indoor air. How It Compares To Cigarette Smoke And City Air Cigarette smoke lingers. It coats walls, fills lungs, and contains thousands of carcinogens. Vape aerosol disperses faster and carries far fewer toxins, but it still adds measurable particles to indoor air. Traffic emissions in Vancouver can raise PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide near busy roads above typical indoor background levels, depending on location and time. The difference is scale. Traffic pollution is chronic and largely unavoidable, while indoor vaping is brief and entirely preventable. Why Schools Choose Zero Use Indoors Schools apply a simple rule: if it adds pollutants to shared indoor air, it does not belong inside. The safest way to protect students and staff is to remove the source. Provincial law leaves no gray area. Vaping on school grounds, at any time, by anyone, is prohibited. There is also the matter of example. Teachers are expected to model lawful and health-conscious behavior. Even if students never see it, vaping at work can erode the idea that everyone follows the same rules. For districts, consistency is key to maintaining trust. The Bigger Question – Health Rule Or Optics? For some, the Coquitlam case feels excessive. After all, most people breathe worse air standing beside a bus stop than from a faint puff in a staff washroom. But schools run on optics as much as safety. They are designed to model what is healthy, responsible, and legal. Secondhand vape aerosol may not be deadly, but it still conflicts with that message. In the end, this case is not about whether vaping itself is dangerous. It is about how institutions balance personal freedom with public accountability and whether those rules, however strict, are worth defending. What To Know If You See Vaping On School Grounds In BC, vaping anywhere on school property is prohibited under the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act. The rule applies 24 hours a day and covers staff, students, visitors, and contractors. Reports can be made directly to the principal or the school district office. Enforcement can include administrative penalties or workplace discipline. The simplest takeaway: vape anywhere off campus, but never on school grounds at any time of day. Sources: BC Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act; School District 43 Administrative Procedure 171; BC Commissioner for Teacher Regulation; CDC and U.S. National Academies reviews on e-cigarette aerosol. Disclaimer:  This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.

Canada has seen some of the most horrific mass school shootings in modern history. With tragic events such as the École Polytechnique massacre in 1989, the Dawson College shooting in 2006, and the La Loche Community School shooting in 2016, there is an urgent need to protect the lives of students and staff within school premises. As the frequency of school shootings continues to be a pressing concern worldwide, we're going to examine the incidence and impact of Canada's mass school shootings to understand how to keep schools safe. Quick Answers: École Polytechnique massacre (1989) Dawson College shooting (2006) La Loche Community School shooting (2016) How common are school shootings in Canada? Canadian School Shootings: What's Being Done to Prevent Them? A List Of Canada's Mass School Shootings La Loche Community School Shooting (2016) Randan Fontaine, Source: CBC The last school shooting in Canada happened on January 22, 2016, in La Loche, Saskatchewan. Randan Dakota Fontaine, 17, killed four people, including his two brothers at a home and two teachers at the school. Seven others were injured. He had cognitive, social and developmental issues. Fontaine was charged with four counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted murder. École Polytechnique massacre (1989) On December 6, 1989, 25-year-old Marc Lépine entered École Polytechnique in Montreal armed with a rifle. He opened fire on the student and staff and killed 14 women and injured 14 others before taking his own life. He specifically targeted women in his attack, and his actions were motivated by his hatred of feminists. According to The Conversation , he allegedly walked into a classroom and ordered the men to leave. He declared, “I hate feminists,” before opening fire. Dawson College shooting (2006) Source: Ian Barrett and Global News On September 13, 2006, 25-year-old Kimveer Gill opened fire at Dawson College in Montreal. Gill killed one person and injured 19 others, Gill shot himself soon after being shot in the arm by police. Gill wrote on a goth forum that he wished to die either "like Romeo and Juliet - or in a hail of gunfire". The incident highlighted the need for better emergency response plans and improved mental health services for students. How Common Are School Shootings in Canada? From 1885 to 2018, Global News reported 29 confirmed cases of school shootings in Canada, resulting in the deaths of 40 people and injuring 68 others. On average, this indicates that 0.4 school shootings occurred each year. In comparison, in the United States from 2013 to 2021, there was an average of 87 school shootings per year, as per Everytown Research. This resulted in an annual average of 28.4 fatalities and 59.6 injuries. Between 2009 and 2018, CNN reported a lower number of school shootings in the United States, with a total of 288 incidents identified using more stringent criteria. You can view the CNN graph below. Canadian School Shootings: What's Being Done to Prevent Them? In the aftermath of the tragic La Loche school shooting in 2016, Canada was forced to confront its history of school shootings and take proactive steps towards preventing future incidents. Passing Bill C-71 One notable step in 2019 was the passage of Bill C-71 by the federal government, which introduced stricter gun control laws and made it more difficult for individuals with a history of violence to obtain firearms. Schools Tightened Their Security Additionally, many schools have established emergency response plans and protocols for communicating with parents during a crisis. They've implemented lockdown drills and other preparedness measures to protect both students and staff in the event of a potential threat. Mental Health Services Furthermore, mental health services are being made available to students and teachers to identify and address warning signs of violence. While Canada has seen some of the deadliest mass school shootings in history, the overall incidence of such incidents in the country has been relatively low. Nonetheless, t he scars left behind by these events have had a lasting impact. There remains a pressing need for ongoing vigilance and protective measures to ensure the safety of students and staff within the school environment.

Friday, October 10, 2025, around 7:30 a.m., calls began coming in from the seawall near David Lam Park. Cyclists slowed, joggers stopped, and panic rippled across one of Vancouver’s most familiar morning routes. The seawall stabbings left seven people injured and raised new concerns about safety along one of the city’s busiest public spaces. For many women who walk or run that stretch daily, the news felt personal. It was a reminder that even the safest places can feel uncertain overnight. What Happened During the Yaletown Seawall Stabbings Police responded to multiple reports of assaults along the seawall around 7:30 a.m. on October 10, 2025. Three people were found with non life threatening stab wounds and taken to hospital. Over the next two days, four more victims came forward, bringing the total to seven. According to Vancouver Police, the victims included five men and two women between the ages of 23 and 59. All were treated for injuries ranging from stab wounds to minor assaults. Investigators described the incidents as random and unprovoked, with no known link between the victims. Who the Police Have Arrested On October 13, police arrested a 35 year old suspect in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. The individual was taken into custody around 4:20 p.m., ending a citywide search that began when security images were released to the public two days earlier. The suspect remains in custody while investigators prepare charge recommendations for Crown counsel. Once those are approved, the case will move to Provincial Court, where release conditions and hearing dates will become public. No motive or additional details have been released. How the Attacks Unfolded Investigators say the first three victims were attacked along separate points of the seawall, all within a short distance of each other. Witnesses reported seeing a woman in dark clothing leaving the area shortly after the first calls came in. As more reports surfaced, police reviewed surveillance footage and identified additional victims who had not initially contacted authorities. By Sunday, officers released new images showing a suspect walking east on Marinaside Crescent and asked anyone with information to come forward. Safety Tips for Vancouver’s Seawall 1. Plan Routes and Share Location Before heading out, share your live location with a friend or family member using your phone’s map app. Choose routes that stay close to main paths and have visible access points to nearby streets. 2. Stay Visible and Aware Stick to busier sections of the seawall and avoid low lit stretches during early morning or late evening hours. Keep headphones at a low volume so you can stay aware of your surroundings and nearby movement. 3. Carry Legal Safety Tools Items such as dog spray, personal alarms, or flashlights are legal to carry if used for legitimate purposes like animal deterrence or visibility. Do not carry any object with intent to use it against a person. Possessing an item for a dangerous purpose can violate section 88 of the Criminal Code. Any use of an object against a person would later be assessed under section 34 self defense, which considers whether your actions were reasonable in the circumstances. It is, however, illegal to carry a weapon with the intent to use it on a person. 4. Report Incidents Promptly If you see something concerning, call 911 for emergencies or 604-717-3321 for non emergencies. VPD also offers online reporting for certain files when no immediate danger exists. How to Feel Safe Again After Public Violence After a violent incident in a familiar space, it’s normal to feel uneasy. Many women who run or walk alone in Vancouver say it takes time before the seawall feels comfortable again. Start small - go during daylight, invite a friend, or choose well populated sections until your confidence returns. Safety is not only about tools or patrols. It is also about regaining trust in your surroundings. The more eyes on the path, the safer it becomes. Joining community runs or group walks helps you reclaim those spaces and reinforces that public areas belong to everyone, not to fear. What’s Next in the Investigation The investigation remains active, with VPD working alongside Crown counsel to determine appropriate charges. Once charge approval is granted, court dates and release conditions will become public. Residents are encouraged to follow verified updates through VPD.ca or credible local outlets. Police have thanked witnesses and the public for helping identify the suspect and sharing footage. What This Means for Public Safety in Vancouver The seawall has long been a symbol of community and safety in Vancouver. Incidents like this challenge that sense of security, especially for women who regularly walk or run alone. According to police, random assaults make up a small portion of overall violent crime in the city. Still, cases like the Yaletown seawall stabbings often lead to increased patrols and renewed community awareness. The seawall remains one of Vancouver’s most monitored public areas, and safety depends on shared vigilance between residents and police.

In Canada, the legality of carrying self-defense tools pivots on the intent behind possession, not just the item itself. Flashlights and whistles: simple, yet effective. Common, every day items can become essential tools for personal safety. While Canadians have access to a range of legal protection tools, their primary purpose dictates their lawful use. Apps like "bSafe" and "Life360" bridge the gap between traditional safety tools and modern protective measures. On this page, you’ll find: Is Self-Defense Legal In Canada? A Scenario Comparing Weapon Scenarios Best Self Defense Tools To Carry In Canada What Is Reasonable Force? Is self-defense legal in Canada? Picture this: Claire always felt at ease in Vancouver's bustling downtown district. But late one night, while walking past the lamp lit streets of Gastown, she felt a man’s presence shadowing her steps. Panic surged. Reaching into her handbag, her fingers wrapped around a heavy metal flashlight she always carried for late-night emergencies. As the man reached out to grab her wrist, Claire shone the flashlight directly into his eyes, temporarily blinding him. She ran, making her way to a well-lit street. Claire's actions are well within the law - but what if she had used a pen to stab him? Or something more lethal, like a knife? While Canada firmly upholds your right to self-defense, the law comes with a playbook of strict rules that define how we can stand our ground and fend off threats. By the end of this guide, I want you to know exactly how you can defend yourself with the legal limits of the law and what 'weapons' you are allowed to carry. We also have a list of the best self defense tools you can carry on you (with zero intent of using them on another human ... ). Is Self-Defense Legal In Canada? Pen Vs Knife: Comparing Self-Defense Weapons As you saw at the start, Claire's quick thinking saved her from a potentially dangerous situation. But if Claire had used the flashlight to hit the man, then in court, the legal judgment would hinge on whether Claire's use of the flashlight was a 'reasonable' response in relation to the man's attack. If the man was simply following her and was not threatening her, then hitting with with a flashlight might be found as excessive force. And if the man was physically aggressive and he was clearly a threat to her, Claire's actions might be viewed as self-defense. Let's take it up a notch. Imagine if Claire had stabbed the man with a pen, a knife or even fired a gun ... The Self-Defense Spectrum: Comparing Claire’s Choices Scenario 1: The Pen Defense Imagine if instead of a flashlight , Claire had a pen in her handbag which she instinctively used it to stab him in the hand. Legal Implications: In BC, using any object as a weapon, even a common item like a pen, must be used in self defense in a manner that is considered as ' reasonable force .' Putting ourselves in Claire's shoes: Did she believe she was in immediate danger? Was there a clear escape route that she missed? And, crucially, was her reaction in line with the threat level from the man's attack? The nuances matter. Scenario 2: Using A Knife Suppose Claire had a hidden knife or any tool intended for harming someone, then the scenario's legal dynamics change. Legal Implications : If Claire genuinely felt that her life was in danger, whipping out a weapon isn't a free pass. The law zooms in on proportionality. Was stabbing the man the only way out, or were chances that she could have run instead? If she overreacted when escape was an option, Claire might land in legal hot water. Scenario 3: Non-Lethal Defense Tools Let's say Claire had been carrying a whistle or personal alarm and used it to scare him off when the man approached her threateningly. Legal Implications : Using non-lethal self-defense tools like alarms or whistles are a safer legal bet - non-lethal tools deter or draw attention rather than cause the attacker harm. You have zero chance of this tool being interpreted as excessive force. Let's dial up the intensity: Claire attacks the man with a firearm. Scenario 4: The Perils of Using a Firearm in Self-Defense Claire, feeling a looming threat from the man, reached into her bag, pulled out a concealed firearm, and fired, critically wounding the man. Legal Implications : While Claire might believe she acted reasonably given the perceived threat, she did use 'lethal force', which means a level of force that could cause serious bodily harm or death. This defense is tricky, especially given the extremity of her response. The court would have to examine: The reason she was carrying a firearm in her possession The immediacy and severity of the threat she encountered Any alternative actions that were available to her The proportionality of her response to the threat Even if Claire's defense was accepted, she could still grapple with legal repercussions related to her possessing a firearm in the first place, its usage and its storage. She could potentially be charged with assault with a weapon or charged with more severe accusations like attempted murder. Reasonable Force in Self-Defense Explained If you find yourself under attack or genuinely believe an attack is imminent, you're legally allowed to defend yourself, according to Section 34 of the Canadian Criminal Code. But this defense must involve what the law dubs as " reasonable force ." Let's say an attacker is about to land a punch. You retaliate with a gunshot. Well, firing a gun would be viewed as excessive or unreasonable force. Or lets say you were both using fists: if your attacker stops punching you, but you continue to punch them causing serious harm, you're potentially overstepping the boundaries of "reasonable force." Read our guide on 7 Self Defense Tools You Can Legally Carry In a court of law, 'reasonable force' in the Canadian legal system considers some of these factors: Threat Level: How serious was the threat in comparison to the force used in self defense? Immediacy of the Threat: Your response must be to an imminent threat - did you retaliate and get revenge much later (say 1 day after) the incident? The Nature of your Response: While non-lethal force is typically seen as more reasonable, using a lethal weapon is only deemed appropriate when facing an immediate, credible threat to life. Then there's also the question as to why you were carrying a weapon in the first place. Contextual Factors: The court considers the sex, age, physical health and mental capacity of the people involved. Having unraveled the intricacies of self-defense in Canada, let's pivot to exploring the legal tools you can arm yourself with for added protection. Best Self-Defense Tools You Can Use In Canada In Canada, several self-defense tools can be legally carried but only if they're carried for another use (intent matters). Pepper spray used against humans is illegal, but Canadians can carry dog spray for protection against wildlife. Say it with me: You're carrying dog spray to protect yourself against wildlife - like bears and coyotes. Otherwise if you are intending to use dog spray as self defense against humans - that is illegal. We have a few options to choose from: SABRE Dog & Coyote Attack Spray SABRE Max Strength Dog Spray   SABRE Dog & Coyote Spray Tactical Pen This very discreet tactical pen tool is a badass way of keeping yourself safe. This pen writes normally and smoothly, but also breaks glass and can be a handy defense tool when you need it. Most Loaded 3-In-1 Tactical Pen Smith & Wesson Tactical Pen   Tactical Flashlights As in Claire's scenario, ordinary flashlights can blind attackers when shone in their eyes and they're legal to possess. You can even buy tactical flashlights that look ordinary but have strobe lights that disorient attackers. Take a look at the best ones below. Rechargeable Flashlight Lumens Flashlight   Personal Safety Alarms Scare away your attacker with the shrill piercing shriek of a personal safety alarm. The beauty of these alarms is that they easily attach to your keychain and they're very discreet if you buy them in particular colours. She's Birdie   Thopeb Siren Keychain   Vantamo Personal Alarm Emergency Personal Alarm   Steel Water Bottle You might be wondering, "Can a water bottle really be used for self-defense?" It sounds a bit unconventional, right? But every day items can be used in self-defense. If you fill a steel water bottle with water and freeze it, you've suddenly got yourself a makeshift weapon that may cause blunt force trauma. Stash-It Diversion Water Bottle Safety Whistles From late-night city walks to hiking in secluded areas, the piercing sound of a whistle will momentarily startle an attacker and make them think twice about continuing, giving you the potential to escape. Titanium Emergency Whistle   Self-Defense Safety Keychains Carrying a self-defense keychain is illegal if its main purpose is self-defense, but if you're carrying one for holding keys , this is fine. Digital Defenders: Tools for Online Safety A staggering 43% of Canadians confess to having fallen prey to fraud or scams at least once in their lives. Your online accounts hold a goldmine of personal data, so to protect that information you need a combination of methods and tools like multi-factor authentication, complex passwords, VPNs and anti-virus software . In a world where risks lurk in shadows, I hope this guide helped you feel ultra-prepared and more knowledgeable about the Canadian legal system. Have you ever been in a dangerous situation? Let me know in the comments below how you handled it and whether you want me to cover a particular scenario. Stay safe!

From the echoes of Waterfront Station near Gastown to the distant hum on the fringes of Vancouver, Granville Street isn't just a road. As night falls, it transforms into an electrifying spectacle of nightlife. But an underlying question persists: When the neon lights glow and shadows play on the streets, is Granville Street safe at night? Let's unpack the insights. We've also gathered 12 tips for staying safe . Is Granville Street Safe at Night? Vancouver Nightlife Insights Top Statistics Approximately 90% of individuals surveyed by a group monitoring Vancouver’s Granville Street during weekend evenings expressed feelings of insecurity there. An overwhelming 89% Report Feeling Unsafe in GED: Insights from a Recent Poll. A fresh poll of urban adults reveals a concerning trend: a staggering 89% don’t feel secure in the GED area. Around 50% recall witnessing violent events on Granville Street - a significant 36% attest to having directly faced harassment. Good Night Out Vancouver, a non-profit committed to combating sexual harassment and assault, orchestrated an online survey that spanned from Nov. 16 to Dec. 30, 2022, and garnered the perspectives of 231 adult participants. But, it's noteworthy to mention that the survey results haven't undergone statistical weighting. Recent visuals from Granville Street showcase a rather desolate scene, where even amidst the daytime, storefronts remain shuttered and hundreds of homeless set up tents. The Vancouver Police Department (VPD) suggests that recent disruptions along the street link more to mental health, addiction, and broader social challenges than to the area's bustling nightlife. Historically, the Granville Entertainment region has been a hotspot for public safety concerns, primarily connected to its vibrant night scene. Today, Granville Street is facing greater challenges from the homeless population dealing with mental health issues and drug addiction. Of note, Granville Street boasts the distinction of being the second-most populated area for single-room occupancy (SRO) housing tailored for low-income individuals in Vancouver, surpassed only by the Downtown Eastside. Crime Rate Dynamics: Between January to February 2023, Vancouver police recorded 177 instances of “offence against a person,” in the downtown core area. Read more about Vancouver's crime rate here. Community Initiatives: Local community programs have resulted in a 15% increase in nighttime community patrolling in the Granville region. Local Businesses' Feedback: Many shopkeepers, bar owners, and other establishments have observed a pattern in night-time activity that indicates either a safer or more risky environment. Is Downtown Vancouver Safe After Dark? 12 Tips To Remain Safe Navigating Downtown Vancouver post-sunset requires a blend of urban awareness and local knowledge. Consider these more nuanced safety measures: 1. Familiarize Yourself with Transit: Don't be caught at night staring at your phone decoding Google Maps - that's a signal for vulnerability and that you're distracted. Know the schedules and locations of SkyTrain stations or major bus stops. Being near them can provide quick exits and are often well-patrolled. 2. Stick to Well-lit Areas : Visit streets that are well-lit and frequented by others. Avoid isolated areas if you can help it, but if you end up on one, make a point of chatting very loudly on a video call to a loved one or friend explaining where you are. 3. Awareness of Social Issues: Vancouver, particularly areas close to the Downtown Eastside, grapple with challenges related to homelessness, addiction, and mental health. Approach situations with empathy, but maintain a safe distance if you're unsure. 4. Travel in Groups : There's safety in numbers, so whenever possible, walk with friends or colleagues. 5. Share Your Uber Location : Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing platforms if you need to travel longer distances. Make sure to share your trip details with someone you trust. 6. Stay Sober : Keep a clear mind and limit alcohol intake - plus, never accept drinks from strangers. 7. Consider Granville Street Dynamics: Given its reputation for nightlife, understand the patterns of Granville Street. Late-night establishments can lead to more crowded sidewalks and potential disturbances. 8. Pay Attention To Who Is Looking At You : This is called situational awareness, when you notice yourself either walking into a potential danger zone (like through a tunnel where there's only 2 exits), or you notice someone starting at you in a predatory manner. You're more likely to notice these scenarios if you refrain from wearing headphones or looking at your phone the whole time. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. 9. Memorize Emergency Numbers : Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers , or have them saved on speed dial. 10. Trust Your Instincts : If something feels off, trust your gut and move to a safer location. 11. Frequent Popular Spots : Areas like Granville Street may be busy, but these locales often have a higher police presence and security, ensuring a safer environment. 12. Historical Crime Data : The Vancouver Police Department's website offers a "GeoDASH" interactive crime map providing insights into crime trends by area. Use this to plan your routes. Your Move! Now, over to you. Which safety tip resonates with you the most? Will you be more observant of your surroundings or perhaps plan out your routes differently? Or, maybe there's a part of Vancouver's nightlife I've yet to touch upon? Regardless, I want to hear from you. Share your thoughts or ask any burning questions in the comments below. Let's keep our city's vibrancy shining bright, safely.

The Independent Soldiers were never quite what their name suggested. Originally a loose-knit gang of Indo-Canadian criminals from Vancouver, they declared their autonomy from the city’s crime overlords in the late ‘90s—only to later become foot soldiers for the Hells Angels. From the early days as street-level dealers for the Punjabi Mafia to their infamous nightclub shootout with the Angels, the Independent Soldiers climbed the criminal ranks—before inevitably folding under the weight of a larger machine. Today, their name still carries weight in the Canadian underworld, though largely as a vestige of what was once a gang with real aspirations of independence. Key Takeaways The Independent Soldiers gang originated in Vancouver in the 1990s, starting as a street-level drug operation under the Punjabi Mafia. After the murder of Bindy Johal in 1998, the gang rebranded itself as an independent force, distancing from its previous handlers. By the early 2000s, the Hells Angels absorbed the Independent Soldiers, reducing them to a proxy gang for their operations in British Columbia and Alberta. The gang was deeply involved in Vancouver’s 2009 gang war, aligning with the United Nations gang against the Red Scorpions. In 2010, IS leaders helped form the Wolfpack Alliance, a crime syndicate that continues to operate across Canada. Recent events, including the 2024 murder of IS veteran Donnie Lyons, suggest that while diminished, the group still plays a role in Canada’s criminal underworld. Read: 10 Self Defense Tools You Can Legally Carry In Canada From Street Dealers to a Criminal Empire Like many criminal organizations, the Independent Soldiers were not born into power but clawed their way up from the gutters of Vancouver’s gangland. They began as a ragtag collection of street dealers, working at the behest of more powerful figures in the Punjabi Mafia. By the late ‘90s, they sought independence—hence the name—and set their sights on bigger profits, bigger risks, and inevitably, bigger enemies. The Birth of a Gang The Sunset Boys, as they were originally known, were a loosely connected group of Indo-Canadian youth from South Vancouver, congregating at the Sunset Community Centre. Like many such groups, their ambitions grew with their access to violence and narcotics. Bindy Johal , the infamous Vancouver gangster, had cast a long shadow over the city’s criminal underworld. When he was shot dead in 1998, his death left a power vacuum—one that the Independent Soldiers were all too eager to fill. You can read his full story here. But in the world of organized crime, “independence” is a fleeting illusion. By the early 2000s, the gang was thriving—but not truly on its own. Expansion & The Hells Angels Takeover The Loft Six nightclub shootout in 2003 was a turning point. What began as a petty bar brawl ended with bullets flying and multiple dead. Among them was Mahmoud Alkhalil, a rising figure in the gang, and John "JJ" Johnson, an affiliate of the Hells Angels. This was not a fight the IS could win alone—and they soon found themselves under the thumb of the very organization they had tried to defy. The Hells Angels saw an opportunity. The Independent Soldiers had manpower, they had distribution networks, and—perhaps most importantly—they had a willingness to do the dirty work. What they lacked was real muscle. The Angels offered protection, a bigger slice of the criminal economy, and a position as a puppet gang for their operations in British Columbia and Alberta. By 2005, the Independent Soldiers were no longer truly independent. The Rise & Fall of Randy Naicker: The Beginning of the End for the Independent Soldiers Randynesh Naicker, right, was identified as the victim in the Port Moody shooting. In this file photo, Naicker poses with Larry Amero, a full-patch Hells Angels member. Amero was critically wounded in Kelowna in August during the gun attack that killed gangster Jonathan Bacon. (CBC) If there was ever a moment when the Independent Soldiers (IS) truly had a chance to become more than a mid-tier gang, it was under Randy Naicker’s leadership. A former street-level dealer turned kingpin, Naicker founded the IS in the early 2000s and led the group as it transitioned from a loosely affiliated crew to a structured criminal organization. The Ambition of a Dead Man Walking Naicker’s ambitions were clear and dangerous—he wanted to expand IS influence beyond Vancouver and form alliances with larger organizations.  In December 2006, he met with key figures in the Red Scorpions, including Jamie Bacon, Dennis Karbovanec, and Jeff Harvey, attempting to position the IS as a player in the city’s gang hierarchy.  This meeting, held at Castle Fun Park in Abbotsford, was later identified by law enforcement as a critical moment in the IS’s integration into the Wolfpack Alliance. A Kidnapping That Exposed Naicker’s Flaws Like many ambitious gang leaders, Naicker wasn’t just expanding operations—he was eliminating obstacles. One of those obstacles was Harpreet Singh. Harpreet "Happy" Singh was not a member of any gang; rather, he was an associate involved in drug-related activities. In January 2005, he was kidnapped and assaulted by members of the Independent Soldiers gang, including Randy Naicker and Harpreet Narwal, after 136 kilograms of marijuana went missing. The backfired spectacularly when Singh reported the crime to authorities. Naicker was arrested and sentenced to five years in prison for kidnapping and extortion. His absence created a leadership vacuum in the IS, forcing them to rely on external alliances. By the time he was released, the gangland landscape had changed—and Naicker was no longer the untouchable figure he once was. Even behind bars, his reputation made him a marked man. His aggressive tactics had earned him enemies beyond just law enforcement—rivals and even former allies saw him as a liability. The Daylight Execution: Naicker’s Death Shattered the Independent Soldiers Ian Lindsay / Postmedia News (National Post) On June 25, 2012, in broad daylight, 34 year old Randy Naicker was gunned down on a busy street in Port Moody near St. John's and Queens Street, close to a Starbucks and a thrift store.  The masked shooter fired multiple rounds, shattering the window of Naicker’s Infiniti SUV. Witnesses described chaos as bullets tore through the air—it was a public execution designed to send a message.  Vancouver Police later confirmed it was a targeted gang hit, though no suspect was immediately identified. His murder was the final nail in the coffin for any notion of IS independence. With no strong leadership, the IS was fully absorbed into the Wolfpack Alliance. Hells Angels handlers took direct control over the remnants of the gang. The IS lost its identity, transforming from a mid-level force into a group of disposable foot soldiers. Rival gangs, including the Dhak-Duhre group and the Brothers Keepers, began picking off IS members one by one. Drugs, Murders, and the Wolfpack Alliance By the late 2000s, the Vancouver gang war was in full swing. The Independent Soldiers, the Red Scorpions, and the Hells Angels  consolidated their power under a new banner—the Wolfpack Alliance . It was a strategic move: rather than fighting for scraps, these groups aimed to dominate the Lower Mainland’s drug trade together. For a while, it worked. Cocaine flooded the streets, violent enforcement kept rivals in check, and the alliance gave the IS more protection and resources than ever before. But such arrangements never last. The Wolfpack's Fall & the Fate of the Independent Soldiers There is a particular inevitability to organized crime: alliances are fragile, betrayals are inevitable, and everyone eventually meets the wrong end of a gun.  The Independent Soldiers, once a burgeoning force in Vancouver’s criminal ecosystem, spent the last two decades serving, rather than leading. Their merger into the Wolfpack Alliance seemed, at first, to offer strength in numbers. In reality, it only delayed the inevitable. The Kelowna shooting in 2011, which killed Red Scorpions leader Jonathan Bacon and left Hells Angels enforcer Larry Amero wounded, was the beginning of the end. The Wolfpack's enemies—most notably the Dhak-Duhre gang—smelled blood in the water. Amero, a central figure in the Hells Angels-Wolfpack connection, was sentenced in 2022 to 18 years for conspiracy to murder rivals Sandip Duhre and Sukh Dhak. His arrest severed a critical link between the IS and their benefactors in the Angels. Without protection, many former Independent Soldiers were left vulnerable, forced to either align with new factions or disappear entirely. And then, of course, there was Don Lyons. Donald (Donnie) Bryce Lyons Photo by Submitted /PNG (Vancouver Sun) The Execution of Don Lyons: A Message to the IS Donald Bryce "Donnie" Lyons had spent a lifetime in crime, but he clearly overstayed his welcome. The 51-year-old gangster, one of the original members of the Independent Soldiers, was found murdered on a property near Princeton, BC, in June 2024. Before his violent demise, he had been key figure in the Independent Soldiers (IS) since its inception. In the early 2000s, when the IS transitioned from a loose street gang into a structured criminal enterprise, Lyons was among its most influential members. His connections ran deep—he worked closely with the Hells Angels and was a known associate of Wolfpack figureheads Larry Amero and Sukh Deo. Lyons was no stranger to law enforcement. In 2007, he was arrested as part of ‘Project Drill,’ a large-scale investigation into organized crime that linked him to high-level cocaine trafficking. Convicted in 2009, he served time in prison, but his release saw him return to the same world of violence and betrayal that had defined his life. Lyons had spent a lifetime in crime, but he clearly overstayed his welcome. The 51-year-old gangster, one of the original members of the Independent Soldiers, was found murdered on a property near Princeton, BC, in June 2024. To those still clinging to the Independent Soldiers' name, his death was a clear warning: He was tied to the crumbling Wolfpack Alliance, which made him a liability. He was close to Amero, a man now rotting in prison. He had survived too many betrayals, a dangerous trait in the criminal world. His violent history made him impossible to trust, even among his own. The gang isn't what it once was, and those who refuse to adapt or disappear will be buried instead. The Independent Soldiers Today: A Gang Without Direction The Independent Soldiers exist today in name only. Their leadership is gone, their alliances are shattered, and their most notorious members are either dead, imprisoned, or lying low. Some IS members have joined surviving Hells Angels chapters, still serving as low-level enforcers. Others have disappeared into the shadows, avoiding the fate of Lyons, Bacon, and Dhak. The few who remain independent? They’re on borrowed time. Unlike their early days, when they were feared as a rising force in the Vancouver underworld, the Independent Soldiers are no longer making history.  They’re merely another name in the long, bloody list of gangs that once mattered—until they didn’t. 💡 If you have any tips about Vancouver gangs, or Vancouver crimes, contact me or leave a comment. Stay safe! Related reading: The Wolfpack Alliance in BC 10 Self Defense Tools You Can Legally Carry In Canada The Hells Angels The Big Circle Gang

Early Morning Assault in Downtown Vancouver A man was arrested in downtown Vancouver on Friday and taken to hospital under the Mental Health Act after allegedly attacking and urinating on a stranger , according to police. The incident happened just after 6 a.m. on September 5, 2025, near West Pender and Beatty Street. Police say the 31-year-old victim was walking when she encountered a naked man sitting on top of a parked car. The suspect began yelling, ran at her, knocked her to the ground, and then urinated on her. Bystanders Stepped In Several bystanders intervened immediately. They restrained the man and called 9-1-1, preventing further harm until Vancouver Police officers arrived. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to hospital under the Mental Health Act, where he remains in secure care. Police Statement on the Assault Vancouver Police spokesperson Constable Tania Visintin described the attack as “very disgusting” and said the victim now faces more than just physical injuries. “She has to live with the memory of what happened,” Visintin said, highlighting the psychological impact of the assault. The Vancouver Police Department confirmed in a news release that a full report will be forwarded to Crown counsel for consideration of criminal charges. The suspect’s name has not been released, and it is unclear if he has any prior criminal history. Legal and Mental Health Process While the suspect was arrested for assault, his case is being managed under the Mental Health Act. In BC, police can apprehend and transport someone to hospital if they are deemed a danger to themselves or others. Crown counsel will review the police file and determine what criminal charges may be laid. Public Safety Concerns Downtown The assault happened in a busy area of downtown Vancouver that sees heavy morning pedestrian traffic. The case has raised renewed concerns about public safety, particularly for women walking alone. Vancouver Police say the quick actions of bystanders played a key role in limiting harm. Officials continue to encourage witnesses of violent or unusual behavior to call 9-1-1 immediately. Stay safe. Related reading: Surrey Bear Creek Park Shooting Canada’s Most Dangerous Cities Two Fatal Shootings in Burnaby & Langley Tied to Gang Violence

Not all gangs are built from the same cloth. Some crews stay quiet, hiding in shadows, happy with scraps. Others go to war living loud, ruthless, dominating their territory through force and fear. The United Nations Gang and the Red Scorpions made violence their brand. They hunted each other, fought battles in streets, clubs and parking lots, and weren't afraid to leave bodies behind. You want real insight into BC’s gang wars? Then buckle up. No matter how little you know right now, by the end of this, you'll understand exactly why the UN Gang vs Red Scorpions conflict pushed Vancouver to the brink. Origin of the Rivalry: How the UN Gang vs Red Scorpions War Began To understand the violent clash between the UN Gang and Red Scorpions, you need to go back to the early 2000s. The friction started small—local nightclub fights and street-level drug disputes—but escalated quickly and relentlessly. On December 22, 2002, tensions exploded at the Luxor nightclub (formerly Animals nightclub) in Abbotsford, BC. Anton Hooites-Meursing, a Red Scorpions member, confronted brothers BonLeuth and Souskavath Thiphavong from the UN Gang. A heated exchange erupted into violence, with both sides wielding broken bottles as weapons. The fight spilled into the parking lot, where Hooites-Meursing stabbed both Thiphavong brothers. BonLeuth later died in hospital from his injuries. In retaliation, the UN Gang murdered Red Scorpion member Edward "Skeeter" Russell in January 2003. Shortly after, an audio recording surfaced of UN Gang member Gupreet "Bobby" Rehal laughing about Russell’s death, marking Rehal as the prime target for retaliation. On March 13, 2003, Red Scorpions exacted revenge. They tracked down 19-year-old Rehal at his family home on Saturnia Crescent in Abbotsford. When Rehal opened the door, a Red Scorpions shooter fired directly into his face, leaving him mortally wounded. He died in hospital the following day. By 2006, the conflict intensified after the Bacon brothers (Jamie, Jonathan, and Jarrod) left the UN Gang’s orbit and joined the Red Scorpions. Their defection triggered open warfare, turning a local feud into a full-scale gang war that would ultimately result in dozens of murders throughout the Lower Mainland. Police Crackdown: Arrests, Trials & the Aftermath As gang violence escalated dramatically between the UN Gang and the Red Scorpions through 2008 and 2009, law enforcement intensified its response, systematically dismantling both gangs' leadership structures. In March 2009, police arrested several prominent UN Gang members, notably Barzan Tilli-Choli, Aram Ali, Nicola Cotrell, and Sarah Trebble, primarily for their roles in the February 15, 2009 murder of Fraser Sunderland and related acts of gang violence. Tilli-Choli pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder in 2013. After serving part of his Canadian prison sentence, he was deported to Iraq's Kurdistan region on January 18, 2017. The Red Scorpions faced increased scrutiny, particularly after the Surrey Six massacre on October 19, 2007. While not directly linked to the immediate escalation in 2008–2009, the massacre intensified the police response to gang violence in British Columbia. Red Scorpions members Cody Haevischer and Matthew Johnston were ultimately convicted of six counts of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Jamie Bacon, initially facing murder charges, accepted a plea deal in 2020, pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit murder in relation to the Surrey Six killings and receiving an 18-year sentence. On May 17, 2008, Clayton Roueche, founder and leader of the UN Gang, was arrested in the United States while traveling through Texas. He faced serious charges of drug trafficking, conspiracy, and money laundering. After being extradited, Roueche was sentenced in December 2009 to 30 years in a U.S. federal prison. These decisive arrests weakened both gangs significantly. With their core leadership either imprisoned, deported, or deceased, the resulting instability indirectly strengthened rival groups, notably the Independent Soldiers and Hells Angels. Long-term Impact & the Changing Gang Landscape The dismantling of the UN Gang and the Red Scorpions’ leadership between 2008 and 2010 created a weakened state of both gangs and opened opportunities for rival criminal groups to assert control. The Hells Angels, already influential in BC’s organized crime scene, solidified their position further. Through alliances with emerging factions like the Independent Soldiers and later the Wolfpack Alliance, they expanded their influence over the province’s lucrative drug markets. The UN Gang tried to regroup under various lower-ranking members but struggled to regain their previous prominence. Likewise, the Red Scorpions splintered into smaller cells, maintaining their presence but lacking unified direction. One notable outcome was the rise of the Wolfpack Alliance in the early 2010s, which included former UN and Red Scorpions members, along with figures linked closely to the Hells Angels. This group became responsible for renewed violence in the Lower Mainland and internationally, notably involving prominent figures like Larry Amero and Rabih Alkhalil. Want to learn more? Explore our entire BC Gangsters list here . Otherwise, jump to the gang of your liking here: BC Gangsters List: Wolfpack Alliance 856 Gang The Alkhalil family Bacon Brothers Brothers Keepers Gang The Big Circle Gang Hells Angels Independent Soldiers Dhak-Duhre Group Kang Crime Group The Red Scorpions Shui Fong Triad Gang United Nations Gang

Looking for a detailed UN gang timeline? You’re in the right place. The United Nations gang , formed in Abbotsford, BC in the late 1990s, became one of Canada’s most notorious organized crime groups. Over nearly three decades, the gang has been linked to international drug trafficking, high-profile murders, and violent turf wars with rivals like the Red Scorpions and Brothers Keepers . In this timeline, you’ll find key dates and verified events tied to the UN gang’s formation, leadership changes and arrests based on court records, investigative journalism, and police reports. Let’s break down the full UN gang timeline, year by year. Timeline Of The UN Gang Part 1: Formation and Early Years (1997–2003) Clayton Rouche, one of the founders of the United Nations Gang 1997 – Founding of the UN Gang May 25, 1997: The United Nations Gang is officially founded in Abbotsford, BC, by Clayton Roueche and a group of high school friends. Roueche, a white Canadian immersed in Vietnamese-Canadian culture, had ties to Asian organized crime through his Lao-Canadian girlfriend’s family. The gang name originates at a party where someone joked, “What the fuck is this, a United Nations meeting?” in reference to the racially diverse group. The name stuck. Founding members include James Coulter, who recalls being recruited by Roueche after meeting him at a Chilliwack rave in January 1997. Coulter began selling drugs to support his use of ecstasy and crack cocaine. 1997–1998 – Initial Smuggling Operations Roueche begins working for a Vietnamese organized crime figure known as Vu. UN members start trafficking BC Bud marijuana to the United States, primarily grown in the Kootenays region. By the end of 1997, the gang is exporting bulk quantities, often traded kilo-for-kilo for cocaine. Marijuana smuggling is initially done by trucks, later shifting to airplanes and helicopters due to enhanced post‑9/11 border security. 1999–2000 – Establishing Identity The gang rapidly grows, attracting mainly second-generation Vietnamese-, Lao-, Persian-, and East Asian-Canadians, along with some Europeans and Indigenous members. Roueche forms a gang identity rooted in Asian mysticism, martial arts, and symbolism. Members wear clothing featuring dragons and tigers, and many get tattoos of the motto “Honor, Loyalty, Respect” in Chinese characters. Initiation rituals involve elements modeled on Chinese triads, including walking under “The Mountain of Knives” and swearing loyalty to the 36 Oaths. 2000 – Animals Nightclub Brawl A pivotal event occurs at Animals nightclub in Abbotsford. A group of white Hells Angels supporters in “Support 81” shirts begin harassing Asian patrons. A week later, a group of 30 Hells Angels and their supporters return to the club. The UN responds with 70 members in what witnesses and police describe as a major street fight. According to James Coulter: “There were five or six different fights happening out on the street… an Abbotsford officer gets out of his car and goes ‘There’s H.A.! There are fights everywhere!’” The UN gang successfully repels the Hells Angels, gaining significant respect and visibility in BC’s gang scene. 2001–2003 – Dial-a-Dope & Club Warfare UN pioneers the “dial-a-dope” system, distributing burner phone numbers for delivery drug sales. They operate with loyal deliverymen, who rarely turn Crown’s evidence if arrested. Smuggling becomes more sophisticated: floatplanes and helicopters regularly fly across the BC–Washington border carrying hundreds of pounds of marijuana per trip. December 22, 2002 – Luxor Nightclub Stabbing A brawl erupts at Luxor nightclub (formerly Animals) in Abbotsford between UN members led by James Thiphavong and Red Scorpions members led by Anton Hooites-Meursing. Brothers BonLeuth and Souskavath Thiphavong are stabbed with broken beer bottles; BonLeuth dies in hospital. This marks the beginning of the UN–Red Scorpions feud. January 2003 – Murder of Edward “Skeeter” Russell In revenge for Thiphavong’s death, the UN kills Red Scorpion member Edward “Skeeter” Russell. An audio recording later emerges of Gupreet “Bobby” Rehal laughing about Russell’s murder, leading to retaliation. March 13, 2003 – Murder of Bobby Rehal Anton Hooites-Meursing and other Red Scorpions go to Rehal’s parents’ house on Saturnia Crescent, Abbotsford. A Red Scorpion underage shooter knocks on the door. When 19-year-old Rehal answers, he’s shot in the face and later dies at Royal Columbian Hospital. August 2, 2003 – Attempted Murder by Jing Bon Chan UN member Jing Bon Chan, suspecting his girlfriend Christina Hyun Oh Yoon of infidelity, stabs Winston Thieu Anh Bui after finding them together in her Richmond apartment. Thieu falls from a third-floor balcony, resulting in a coma. Chan is arrested and charged with attempted murder and weapons possession. Part 2: Cross-Border Smuggling and U.S. Crackdown (2004–2006) 2004 – Weapons and Drug Importation Arrest Paul Vincent, a UN-affiliated importer, is arrested at a Calgary hotel. Found in possession of a Bren machine gun, barrels of banned chemicals, and $585,000 in cash. The prosecution seeks a 21-year sentence, but the trial is dismissed on a technicality related to evidence seizure. 2005 – Rapid Expansion of U.S. Smuggling Routes March 2005 U.S. ICE agents secretly place a GPS tracker and ignition kill switch on a pickup truck used to smuggle marijuana across the U.S.-Canada border. June 2005 Agents activate the kill switch and arrest Brian Fews and Trevor Schoutens, both Canadian UN members. Ken Davis, a UN lieutenant in the U.S., is asked by Roueche to pay their bail. Davis complies, but this moment marks a turning point—within weeks, he begins cooperating with American law enforcement, eventually providing intelligence that helps dismantle parts of the gang’s cross-border operations. Ask ChatGPT August 12, 2005 Alexander Swanson, a UN gang member, is arrested in Blaine, Washington, with bags full of marijuana. September 2005 Zachary and Braydon Miraback, brothers from Calgary, are arrested in Puyallup, WA, with 1,000 pounds of marijuana packed in 23 bags. Zachary refuses to identify himself or provide ID. December 1, 2005 A floatplane lands in Soap Lake, WA carrying 325 pounds of marijuana. UN gang pilot Greg Fielding is arrested by ICE. 2006 – Aerial Routes Intensify; Major Busts Follow March 14, 2006 Another floatplane lands at Omak Lake in Washington on the Colville Indian Reservation. Found onboard: 314 pounds of marijuana and 2,400 ecstasy pills. UN member Kevin Haughton is arrested. March 23, 2006 Canadians Sharmila Kumar and Shialen Varma, both of Vancouver, are arrested near Omak Lake with hockey bags full of marijuana in their SUV. Local sheriff Frank Rogers describes UN smuggling as a “daily event” straining law enforcement resources. April–May 2006 U.S. woman Jane Gerth finds a bag with $507,270 USD along Highway 17, likely a UN drug payment drop. Early 2006 – Drug Courier Missions Ken Davis, later an informant, is ordered by Roueche to deliver $500,000 USD to California to purchase 25 kg of cocaine. Davis completes two trips: First: $109,555 USD Second: $118,980 USD Roueche threatens violence if Davis is late on the third trip. May 9, 2006 – Project Frozen Timbers Surveillance Canadian and U.S. agents track Dustin “Princess” Haugen and Daryl Desjardins flying a helicopter across the border. They unload five hockey bags into a pickup truck in Washington. ICE arrests the receivers; bags contain 300 pounds of BC Bud. September 25, 2006 – Arrest at Tieton State Airport UN members Nicholas Kocoski and Joshua Hildebrandt are arrested in Rimrock, WA. Kocoski's GPS device reveals that their flight originated in Chilliwack, BC, and Rimrock was a staging stop for Montana. GPS shows Kocoski had made hundreds of prior trips. September 27, 2006 – Cocaine Seizure in California Daniel Leclerc, a UN member, is arrested at Yreka Rohrer Field airport, Montague, CA, en route to Chilliwack. Found in possession of 315 pounds of cocaine. Part 3: Sinaloa Ties, Mexico Killings & Roueche’s Arrest (2007–2008) 2007 – Hells Angels Links and Internal Crackdowns April 4, 2007 – Arrest of Omid Bayani Omid Bayani, United Nations Gang Member Omid Bayani, a United Nations Gang member and Iranian refugee, is arrested in Abbotsford while riding with Vincenzo Sansalone, a full-patch Hells Angel from the Haney chapter. Police seize the following from Bayani’s vehicle: a loaded .38-calibre handgun a hunting knife a wooden club (broken chair leg) a machete 600 litres of GHB (gamma hydroxybutyrate) Bayani had previously served five years in prison for armed robbery. While incarcerated at Bowden and later Kent Institution, he gained a reputation for violence and provocation. He was ordered deported to Iran but remained in Canada and joined the UN Gang. Bayani worked as a trafficker in a GHB pipeline connected to: Mehrdad “Juicy” Bahman, Hells Angels (Toronto chapter) Steven Gault, a police informant and Hells Angels treasurer, who later exposed the link Bayani’s GHB business caused financial strain on the Toronto chapter after police seized Bahman’s supply. 2008 – Gang War, Murders, and International Arrests May 8, 2008 – Murder of Duane Harvey Meyer Duane “D.W.” Meyer, age 41, is killed in a drive-by shooting while standing on the front lawn of his home on Kipling Street in Abbotsford. Witnesses report: two vehicles involved: a Ford F-350 truck and a Mercedes-Benz SUV Meyer crawled to his porch before dying of blood loss At his funeral on May 15, 2008, both UN Gang members and Hells Angels attend, wearing black-and-white hoodies with dragons. May 9, 2008 – Mistaken-Identity Murder of Jonathan Barber Jonathan Barber, a 23-year-old audio technician, is shot and killed while driving Jamie Bacon’s Porsche Cayenne along Kingsway. UN hit team members involved: Barzan Tilli-Choli Ion “Johnny K-9” Croitoru Troy Tran Barber was mistaken for Jamie Bacon. His girlfriend, Vicky King, driving behind him, is also shot but survives. In court, Tran testifies: “I thought it was Bacon. All white guys looked the same.” May 17, 2008 – Arrest of Clayton Roueche Clayton Roueche is arrested at Houston International Airport while en route to a wedding in Mexico City via El Salvador.He is charged in the U.S. with: conspiracy to import marijuana and export cocaine conspiracy to launder money In December 2009, he is sentenced to 30 years in federal prison and fined $8 million. He is incarcerated at USP Florence High in Colorado. July 12, 2008 – Murders of Ahmed Kaawach & Elliot Castaneda Ahmed “Lou” Kaawach and Elliot “Taco” Castañeda are shot dead while eating at Tacos de Barbacoa El Cuellos on Calle Pedro Buzeta in Guadalajara, Mexico.A minivan pulls up and gunmen fire automatic rifles, killing both men at the table. Kaawach: Lebanese-Canadian, previously deported, served as the UN Gang’s liaison with the Sinaloa Cartel. Castañeda: Guatemalan-Canadian realtor. Owned three homes worth over $1.1 million and drove a BMW, despite limited legitimate income. The murders are believed to be cartel-related. No arrests have been made. Part 4: Vancouver Gang War, Red Scorpions Conflict & UN Prosecutions (2009–2012) 2009 – The UN–Red Scorpions Gang War Peaks February 3, 2009 – Murder of Raphael Baldini Red Scorpions member Raphael Baldini is shot dead while talking on his cell phone in a friend's SUV. His last words are reportedly “oh my God” before being gunned down in a targeted hit believed to be linked to the UN Gang. February 6, 2009 – Murder of Kevin LeClair Mixed martial artist and Red Scorpions associate Kevin LeClair is shot multiple times in broad daylight in the parking lot of the Marketplace IGA at Thunderbird Centre in Langley. He later dies in hospital. The hit is later tied to the UN Gang. February 12, 2009 – Murder of Nicole Marie Alemy Nicole Alemy, the wife of UN member Koshan Alemy, is shot and killed while driving her white Cadillac CTS in Surrey. Her four-year-old son is in the backseat but survives. The attack is believed to be a message to her husband. February 15, 2009 – Attempted Murder of Tyler Willock Red Scorpions member Tyler Willock is targeted in a drive-by shooting while riding in a Range Rover with Fraser Sunderland and an unidentified woman. Sunderland dies from gunshot wounds; Willock survives. March 2009 – Arrests in the Willock Shooting UN boss Barzan Tilli-Choli is arrested along with: Aram Ali Nicola Cotrell Sarah Trebble (girlfriend of Hells Angel Larry Amero) Tilli-Choli, Ali, and Cotrell are charged with first-degree murder. Trebble is charged as an accessory. All are released on bail, despite Tilli-Choli being under an active deportation order to Iraq. March 31, 2009 – Murders of Ryan “Whitey” Richards and Sean “Smurf” Murphy Both men, linked to the Red Scorpions, are killed in separate shootings on the same day. Richards is found near Yellow Barn Country Produce Market, and Murphy is discovered dead inside a car. April 2009 – Tilli-Choli Charged in Conspiracy to Kill the Bacon Brothers Barzan Tilli-Choli is charged, along with: Dilun Hung Aram Ali Ion “Johnny K-9” Croitoru Daniel Russell Soroush Ansari The group is accused of orchestrating murder attempts against Red Scorpions leaders Jonathan, Jarrod, and Jamie Bacon. May 2009 – Murder of Sunil Mall Former UN member Sunil Mall, who switched allegiances to the Red Scorpions after Roueche’s arrest, is found murdered in his vehicle. November 26, 2009 – Drug Charges Against UN Leaders UN members Douglas Vanalstine, Daryl Johnson, and Nicholas Wester are charged with multiple drug trafficking offenses. Vanalstine had taken over leadership duties following Tilli-Choli’s legal troubles. 2010–2012 – Legal Pleas and Cartel Killings 2012 – Mexican Cartel Violence Targets UN Members January 15, 2012 – Murder of Salih Abdulaziz Sahbaz Salih “Sal” Sahbaz, a UN member from Surrey, is murdered in Sinaloa, Mexico. His body is found with over $20,000 USD in cash in his wallet. January 16, 2012 – Bomb Attempt on Thomas Gisby UN member Thomas Gisby escapes an attempted car bombing at his Whistler home and flees to Mexico. April 28, 2012 – Murder of Thomas Gisby Gisby is shot twice from behind while standing in line at a Starbucks in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. The weapon used is a .44 Magnum revolver, a rare choice in cartel killings. After the killing, a member of the Wolfpack Alliance sends a message to Rabih “Robby” Alkhalil reading: “lol.” June 25, 2012 – Murder of Randy Naicker Wolfpack-affiliated Independent Soldiers leader Randy Naicker is murdered in Port Moody. Police believe the hit was retaliation by UN-affiliated figures. Part 5: Takedowns, Informants & the Fall of the Original UN Leadership (2013–2018) 2013 – Barzan Tilli-Choli Pleads Guilty and Is Deported Barzan Tilli-Choli pleads guilty to conspiracy to commit murder as part of a plea agreement. He had been facing multiple counts related to the murder plots targeting the Bacon brothers and associated shootings.On January 18, 2017, he is deported from Canada to the Kurdistan region of Iraq. 2013 – Ongoing Prosecutions and Testimony from Former Members With many core members of the gang either dead, imprisoned, or deported, UN operations begin to fracture. Police note that remaining cells still operate under the name but without central leadership.A former UN member known only as “D.” due to a publication ban turns Crown witness and testifies at the trial of Cory Vallee. 2017 – Trial of Cory Vallee and Inside Testimony At Cory Vallee’s trial, “D.” describes the gang’s internal structure in detail, revealing: The gang had separate hit teams categorized as either “blunt instruments” or “surgical tools.” “Blunt instruments” included figures like Barzan Tilli-Choli, Duane Meyer, Ion Croitoru, and Trevor “Fingers” Gilbert. “Surgical tools” were precision hitmen, often recruited from Calgary’s FK (Fresh Off the Boat Killers) crew. He states that Roueche was the “glue that kept the group together,” often organizing dinners and maintaining unity across various UN chapters. June 2018 – Cory Vallee Convicted of First-Degree Murder Cory Vallee is convicted in connection with: The 2009 murder of Red Scorpions associate Kevin LeClair A conspiracy to kill the Bacon brothers His conviction marks a significant milestone in the long-running prosecutions stemming from the 2008–2009 Lower Mainland gang war. Part 6: The Wolfpack Rivalry & UN Gang’s Decline (2019–2025) 2019–2021 – Fragmentation and Residual Violence By this period, law enforcement agencies report that the United Nations Gang no longer has a centralized leadership structure. Most of its original members are either dead, in prison, deported or inactive. The Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-BC) and RCMP continue to monitor individuals and small cells still operating under the UN name, many of whom are believed to act independently. 2022 – Arrest of Conor D’Monte in Puerto Rico Conor Vincent D’Monte, one of Canada’s most wanted fugitives and a senior United Nations Gang figure, is arrested in February 2022 in Puerto Rico.He had been living under the alias “Jonathan Williams” and was operating a supposed non-profit focused on wellness and sustainability. D’Monte was wanted in connection with: the 2009 murder of Red Scorpions associate Kevin LeClair conspiracy to commit murder other gang-related offenses His arrest ends more than a decade on the run. March 2024 – D’Monte Returned to Canada Conor D’Monte is extradited to Canada and placed in custody at a pre-trial facility in British Columbia.He is scheduled to face multiple charges, including first-degree murder. Police indicate he had continued ties to UN-linked individuals while in hiding. May 28, 2023 – Murder of Amarpreet “Chucky” Samra Amarpreet Samra, also known as “Chucky,” is shot dead while exiting a wedding at the Fraserview Banquet Hall in South Vancouver around 1:30 am. The shooting is believed to be a targeted retaliation connected to ongoing Lower Mainland gang rivalries. 2025 – Current Status of the UN Gang Documented developments as of 2025 include: Conor D’Monte, once one of Canada’s most wanted fugitives, is now in custody following his 2022 arrest in Puerto Rico and 2024 extradition to Canada. He is awaiting trial for the 2009 murder of Kevin LeClair and other gang-related charges. Amarpreet “Chucky” Samra, a known UN-linked figure identified by CFSEU-BC as high-risk for gang violence, was shot dead in May 2023 while leaving a wedding in South Vancouver. Barzan Tilli-Choli, once Roueche’s second-in-command, was deported to Iraq in 2017 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit murder. Multiple UN associates remain under active investigation or surveillance by CFSEU-BC. Public safety warnings continue to be issued for individuals believed to be linked to UN drug networks and targeted violence. The Wolfpack Alliance  and Brothers Keepers  have overtaken the UN Gang in operational reach, with the Wolfpack now considered the dominant organized crime network in the Lower Mainland. Despite the loss of its original leadership core, the UN Gang continues to have a presence in BC, especially in drug distribution and violent enforcement. However, it no longer holds the same territorial control or strategic influence it once did in the 2000s. Want to explore our entire BC Gangsters list here ? Otherwise, jump to the gang of your liking here: BC Gangsters List: Wolfpack Alliance 856 Gang The Alkhalil family Bacon Brothers Brothers Keepers Gang The Big Circle Gang Hells Angels Independent Soldiers Dhak-Duhre Group Kang Crime Group The Red Scorpions Shui Fong Triad Gang United Nations Gang