Surrey Residents Urge Stronger Self-Defence Laws Amid Extortion Concerns
Concerns regarding self-defence laws are on the rise among Surrey, B.C. residents as extortion threats and violent incidents escalate. Local residents are advocating for stronger laws that would allow them to use firearms for personal protection amid feelings of insecurity and distrust in law enforcement.
Rising Extortion Incidents in Surrey
This month, police reported 35 suspected extortion cases, many accompanied by shootings. Garry Purewal, a resident and rally organizer, noted the ongoing violence has significantly shaken the community’s trust in institutions.
On a recent Sunday, dozens gathered at King George Boulevard and 88 Avenue near Bear Creek Park to demand increased action from law enforcement and government officials. Purewal stressed the need for immediate measures, stating, “When people start to lose trust in institutions, they may take laws into their own hands.”
Calls for Stronger Self-Defence Laws
Residents are advocating for the introduction of “castle” and “stand-your-ground” laws, similar to those in some U.S. states. These laws would permit individuals to utilize lethal force in defense against intruders. Purewal emphasized, “People feel there’s nothing they can do, either die or protect themselves.”
Another participant, Rajvir Dhillon, supported this viewpoint, expressing frustration that police cannot always respond to incidents promptly. He suggested that residents should have the means to defend themselves in urgent situations.
Background on Extortion in the Region
Police statistics reveal a worrying trend with a total of 132 extortion attempts recorded last year, including 49 involving firearms. The majority of these cases have predominantly targeted South Asian communities in the area, who have reported threats and demands for money.
Community Concerns and Official Responses
As the community pushes for change, officials, including Surrey-Cloverdale MLA Elenore Sturko, caution against vigilantism. Sturko, a former police officer, advocates for leaving law enforcement to trained professionals and notes that current laws restrict individuals from keeping a loaded gun at the ready in their homes.
She stated, “Having these laws doesn’t necessarily make your society safer.” Sturko recognizes public fear but insists on addressing the root causes of crime rather than resorting to armed self-defense.
Law Enforcement’s Stance
Surrey police actively monitor the situation. They have established the Surrey Police Extortion Investigations Team and joined the B.C. Extortion Task Force, increasing patrols and victim support since the rise in extortion cases began in the summer of 2025. However, Purewal argues that the community’s anxiety remains high, as many individuals fear being targeted and are hesitant to report incidents.
Legal Framework for Self-Defence
Canadian law allows individuals to defend themselves, although in very limited scenarios under Section 34 of the Criminal Code. This provision states that a person may be justified in using force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves or another individual. Courts assess various factors, making the threshold for using force in self-defence quite high.
Criminologist Wade Deisman pointed out that this high standard aims to prevent vigilante justice. He cautioned that while many residents are calling for change, adopting more permissive self-defence laws could lead to increased violence.
- 35 suspected extortion cases in Surrey this month.
- 132 total extortion attempts recorded in 2025.
- 49 incidents involved shootings.
The growing anxiety surrounding extortion in Surrey highlights the need for discussions on self-defence laws. As residents seek solutions, the balance between safety and legal responsibility remains a critical concern. For further updates, stay tuned to Filmogaz.com.
