Delta mayor sends letter to Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

Delta Mayor George V. Harvie has written to Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth urging new measures to address the ongoing Lower Mainland gang conflict, which has been linked to a series of violent incidents across the region.

Harvie’s letter proposes two immediate steps – expanded use of the RCMP Air 1 helicopter for daily and weekly patrols, and tougher provincial legislation targeting vehicles used in dial-a-dope drug operations. He argues these actions would improve rapid response at crime scenes and create significant consequences for rental agencies or vehicle owners whose cars are tied to gang activity.

“Public safety is paramount,” Harvie wrote. “Resolving the current gang conflict requires a combined effort by multiple agencies. By working together on enforcement, education, outreach, and prevention, we can take important steps to protect our communities.”

The call comes as residents in Delta and Surrey express unease over rising gun violence. Navdeep Sidhu, a father in North Delta, said incidents in nearby neighbourhoods make families nervous. “When we hear helicopters and sirens at night, our kids ask if it’s another shooting. People want reassurance that leaders are taking this seriously.”

Public safety experts note that provincial legislation could face legal challenges but say the mayor’s proposal reflects frustration at the municipal level. The B.C. government has not yet responded publicly to the letter.