SURREY Police Service’s Interim Chief Constable Todd Matsumoto said on Wednesday that extortion threats have declined from 44 incidents in January to eight in July.

Extortion-related shots-fired incidents also decreased from 10 in January to one in July.

Matsumoto said: “While this trend is positive, our investigative, enforcement, and prevention teams remain fully engaged to ensure continued pressure on those responsible for this activity.”

He noted: “I know the extortion threats and related violence experienced over the past year have had a significant impact on members of Surrey’s business community. SPS continues to work closely with policing partners to identify those responsible, support victims, and prevent further incidents.”

He said that their collective efforts are making a difference.

MATSUMOTO in a message to the community said that the policing transition from the RCMP to SPS remains a complex undertaking.

He added that, however, “from a community perspective, our goal is simple: residents should continue to receive reliable, professional police service when they need it. Maintaining continuity of service remains our focus.”

Discussions continue between SPS, the RCMP, and the Province of British Columbia regarding a timeline for SPS to assume operational responsibility for the final remaining district, Guildford / Fleetwood (District 2).
Matsumoto said: “Recruiting remains a critical part of that work. In July, we celebrated the graduation of Recruit Class 178, with 19 new officers joining our Frontline teams. In September, we will welcome another recruit class as they begin training, along with our next group of experienced officers. We have also continued to hire civilian professionals for key roles that support policing operations and public safety throughout the city.”

The Interim Chief Constable said: “I am encouraged by the progress we are making as an organization and as a community. Surrey continues to grow and evolve, and SPS is growing alongside it. Every day, our officers and staff come to work focused on keeping people safe, solving problems, and earning the confidence of the community we serve. It is a responsibility we take seriously, and one we are proud to carry forward.

IN his message, Masumoto said: “Community-based policing means officers who are visible, approachable, and connected to the neighbourhoods they serve. It is about more than responding to calls for service; it is about building relationships and preventing crime.
“This summer, SPS officers and staff attended numerous community events, including Canada Day celebrations, Fusion Festival, FIFA World Cup watch parties, the Downtown Surrey BIA Long Long Table event, Cloverdale Market Days, and many others. These events provide valuable opportunities to connect with residents and help make Surrey a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
“Our Youth Services Team has also remained busy throughout the summer, engaging young people through proactive programming. Initiatives such as the SPS Student Police Academy, Surrey Police Soccer Camp, and youth mentorship programs help build confidence and create positive connections between youth and police.
“Our Crime Prevention team also recently launched Vacation Watch, a free community safety program that helps residents keep their homes secure while they are away. To learn more, visit www.surreypolice.ca/vacation-watch.”