Eby supports police on guns and gangs, flanked by four law enforcement candidates

B.C. NDP Leader David Eby says a re-elected New Democrat government will strengthen police resources to fight illegal guns and gang-linked violence, pledging continued support for federal gun control laws and provincial anti-gang programs.

Speaking at a news conference in Surrey, flanked by four NDP candidates with law enforcement backgrounds, Eby said his government would ensure police have the tools, training, and technology needed to keep weapons out of the hands of criminal organizations and prevent domestic violence tragedies.

Eby highlighted Surrey as a community that has “felt the real consequences of organized crime,” noting that gang-related shootings in the city have shaken many Punjabi and South Asian families, who have been calling for stronger prevention programs and youth outreach. “We will not allow guns and gangs to destroy our communities,” he said.

The NDP leader reaffirmed support for the federal handgun and semi-automatic weapons ban and B.C.’s Integrated Gang Homicide Team, which focuses on gang-related murders and improved surveillance of criminal networks.

Eby also criticized B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad, who has said he would instruct police not to enforce federal gun laws if elected. “That approach would make British Columbia less safe,” Eby said.

According to the NDP, domestic homicides account for about 15 per cent of all murders in B.C., underscoring the need for police collaboration and community-led safety initiatives.