Lower Mainland police agencies continue to try and get a handle on the region’s ongoing gang activity that’s produced a number of fatal shootings in recent weeks.
So far in 2021, there have been 20 gang-related homicides in Metro Vancouver, as well as 20 attempted murders, and police are expecting this violence to continue and escalate.
Today, the Vancouver Police Department unveiled a list of six “dangerous gangsters” who pose a significant risk to public safety.
“There have been numerous reckless, brazen acts of violence that threaten the safety of innocent bystanders,” said Chief Cst. Adam Palmer.
“I want all Vancouver residents to know the faces of these individuals and to keep their distance from them.”
#VPDNews: Vancouver Police today released the photos, names and ages of six gangsters with links to Vancouver who pose a significant risk to the safety of the public. https://t.co/iAvw5wEAQR pic.twitter.com/ylf2A79sF2
— Vancouver Police (@VancouverPD) May 17, 2021
Palmer added that intelligence has led police to believe that the six individuals identified today may be targeted by rival gang members.
“My greatest concern right now, related to the ongoing gang violence, is that an innocent bystander will be hurt or killed during a shooting targeting a gangster,” he explained.
The VPD has also launched ‘Taskforce Threshold’ in an attempt to deal with the escalating gang violence.
The taskforce consolidates resources and expertise from the VPD’s investigation and operations division to help prevent gang violence and investigate incidents if they occur.
It will pull together detectives from the major crime and organized crime sections, as well as tactical officers from multiple units.
“Every single patrol officer will know every single player in this conflict,” Chief Palmer said.
“They will step up patrols in the city – specifically near the restaurants and businesses the gangsters frequent.”
The VPD will continue to share intelligence and collaborate with other police agencies in Metro Vancouver.
