THE Vancouver Police Department hosted a community forum on Wednesday at South Hall Banquet and Wedding Palace at 8273 Ross Street, where officers discussed the extortions impacting communities in Metro Vancouver.

Investigators from VPD’s Operations and Investigation Division were joined by senior police leaders for a discussion that focused on public safety and crime prevention. Attendees learned how extortionists operate, how people can protect themselves, and the importance of timely reporting.

The presenters included Phil Heard, Superintendent, Operations Command; Dale Weidman, Superintendent, Investigative Services; Harm Rai, Acting Inspector, Organized Crime Section; and Gurdeep Beesla, Sergeant, Operations Division.

All photos by SUKHWANT SINGH DHILLON