White Rock RCMP: Help identify break-and-enter suspect

24 June 2025

WHITE ROCK RCMP B AND E — The suspect. Photo: RCMP

https://x.com/i/status/1937648701679468736

WHITE Rock RCMP on Tuesday released a video and a photo of a break-and-enter suspect and requested the public’s assistance with identification.

On June 21, at 5:53 a.m., police received notification of an alarm in the 1300-block of
Johnston Road. Police attended and confirmed a break-and-enter had occurred at the business.

Based on a review of the video surveillance, it was determined that the suspect fled the area prior to police being called. The suspect is described as a man wearing a white hoodie, baseball cap, grey track pants, and brown shoes.

“While we recognize that the suspects face isn’t clear, we believe someone may know him or recognize his clothing,” says Constable Chantal Sears. “Anyone with information is asked to contact White Rock RCMP at 604-545-4800.”

Police are also investigating a second break-and-enter in the 15200-block of Russell Drive which was reported at 8:02 a.m. the same day. Investigators are looking into both incidents and working to determine if they are related.

165 people died from unregulated toxic drugs in April

24 June 2025

PRELIMINARY reporting released by the BC Coroners Service (BCCS) finds that 165 people died from unregulated toxic drugs in April.

In 2025, deaths among those between the ages of 30 and 59 have accounted for 68% of drug-toxicity deaths in the province, and 77% have been male.

April marks a return to more than 160 deaths attributed to unregulated drug toxicity reported to the BC Coroners Service after six consecutive months of reporting fewer than 160 deaths a month.

By health authority in 2025, the highest number of unregulated drug deaths have been in Fraser and Vancouver Coastal health authorities (185 and 155 deaths, respectively) making up 57% of all such deaths during 2025.

Consistent with reporting throughout the public-health emergency, fentanyl and its analogues continue to be the most common substance detected in expedited toxicological testing. More than three-quarters of decedents who underwent expedited testing in 2025 were found to have fentanyl in their systems (68%), followed by methamphetamine (51%) and cocaine (48%).

It is important to note that data from the report is preliminary and subject to change as additional toxicological results are received and investigations conclude, says the BC Coroners Service.

Additional key findings in 2025 include:

* the number of unregulated drug deaths in April 2025 equates to approximately 5.5 deaths per day;

* the cities experiencing the highest number of unregulated drug deaths so far in 2025 are Vancouver, Surrey and Greater Victoria;

* the highest rates of deaths reported were in Northern Health (46 deaths per 100,000 individuals) and Interior Health (35 per 100,000 individuals);

* 47% of deaths reported occurred in a private residence, compared with 21% outdoors; and

* smoking continues to be the primary mode of consumption of unregulated toxic drugs, with 64% of investigations indicating the decedent smoked their substances.

MEANWHILE, the interim leader for the BC Greens, Jeremy Valeriote, said: “Behind every number is a person, and behind every life lost is a community left to grieve. Our hearts are with every person taken too soon due to the toxic drug crisis, and with their loved ones who now carry that unimaginable loss.”

Valeriote noted that the report released by BC’s Coroners Service reported a growing number of drug deaths occurring outdoors—now 21% of all fatalities in 2025, up from 15% in 2022.

He said: “This report underscores the widening gaps in care, housing, and access to life-saving services. The ongoing loss of life is not inevitable—it’s a consequence of political choices.”

These deaths are preventable, and the BC Greens are continuing to call on the government to provide urgent, coordinated action, including:

A regulated alternative to the toxic drug supply
Supervised consumption services that are accessible, low-barrier, and responsive to people’s needs
Evidence-based, timely, and culturally safe treatment for those who seek it
Safe, affordable, and accessible housing for all
A government—and a society—that treats people who use drugs with respect and dignity, not stigma

See the latest report from BC’s Coroners Service on suspected unregulated drug deaths in British Columbia here.

Province, Vancouver, PavCo provide updated costs for FIFA World Cup 26

24 June 2025

Vancouver’s direct costs remain on track with no major changes from 2024’s budget projections, says mayor

WITH less than one year to go before Vancouver welcomes the FIFA World Cup 26, the Province, City of Vancouver and BC Pavilion Corporation (PavCo) have released updated estimates on costs and revenues.

“Hosting FIFA World Cup 26 is an extraordinary opportunity to showcase our province to the world, and we are determined to do it in a way that reflects who we are and what we value,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, on Tuesday. “Working with Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil Waututh peoples helps us deliver an even better FIFA World Cup reflective of where we are, and who we are.”

The economic benefits of hosting seven matches are estimated by the Province to include more than one million additional out-of-province visitors between 2026 and 2031, generating more than $1 billion in additional visitor spending. Over this same period, more than 18,000 jobs could be generated. Tourism is one of B.C.’s biggest industries and the FIFA World Cup 26 is a premier opportunity to promote B.C. on the world stage. Studies show that first-time visitors to B.C. are likely to return four times during their lifetime.

“The City of Vancouver’s direct costs, including security, transportation, the FIFA Fan Festival and upcoming milestones remain on track, with no major changes from 2024’s budget projections,” said Ken Sim, Mayor of Vancouver. “With less than a year to go until the world’s biggest sporting event arrives in Vancouver, we’re working hard to deliver a safe, memorable experience for residents, fans and visitors. We remain committed to managing costs responsibly while maximizing the long-term benefits for our community.”

Walt Judas, CEO, Tourism Industry Association of BC, said: “We’re gearing up to leverage the opportunities for B.C.’s tourism sector. “Welcoming fans and visitors from around the globe before, during and after the tournament means real benefits for local tourism businesses and the skilled professionals who power our vibrant industry. We’re looking forward to showcasing unforgettable B.C. experiences and inspiring visitors to keep returning.”

FIFA’s own economic impact assessment covers the period June 2023 to August 2026 and estimates that preparing for and hosting the tournament could contribute $1.7 billion in economic benefits for B.C. That includes a $980-million increase to GDP and $610 million in labour income.

“FIFA World Cup 26 is more than a series of matches. It’s a catalyst for economic activity, international visibility, and community pride. Hosting seven games will energize our downtown core, including hotels, restaurants, venues, and surrounding neighbourhoods, and will build on Vancouver’s growing $9.6 billion annual visitor economy, which currently supports more than 63,000 jobs,” said Royce Chwin, President and CEO, Destination Vancouver. “It’s a strong vote of confidence in our city’s ability to deliver world-class experiences with real, lasting benefits for local businesses and communities.”

The Province is committed to maximizing the social and economic impacts of these matches and will work to ensure people throughout the province share the benefits.

The FIFA World Cup highlights and accelerates provincial priorities, including building a sustainable, clean economy, strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and advancing reconciliation. Through collaboration among the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, the Province and the City of Vancouver, there is a shared commitment to work together to deliver these matches.

“FIFA World Cup 26 provides an incredible opportunity for us at Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) to share our culture, our teachings, and our history with the world,” said Sxwíxwtn Wilson Williams, spokesperson, Squamish First Nation. “We are looking forward to welcoming guests to our Territory next year to enjoy the tournament, and to working with all our partners to make FIFA World Cup 26 the best the globe has ever seen!”

Chief Jen Thomas, səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), said: “Our səlilwətaɬ community (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) believes strongly in the power of sport and how it can inspire our people today and our next seven generations. We are proud to work hand-in-hand with our partners to co-create and deliver an incredible tournament with a lasting legacy that benefits everyone.”

The Province estimates the updated net core provincial cost of hosting seven FIFA World Cup 26 matches to be within a planning range of $85 million to $145 million, which is similar to the range estimated last year. This does not consider potential additional provincial tax revenues as identified in the Province’s estimates of economic impact benefits.

“Hosting the FIFA World Cup 26 in Vancouver is huge for British Columbia and Canada,” said Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport), Government of Canada. “Sport brings us together like nothing else, and this world-class event will showcase British Columbia’s hospitality, culture and gorgeous landscapes. The FIFA World Cup 26 is about more than football: local businesses, workers, and communities across the province will all benefit from this exciting hosting opportunity. Canada is thrilled to welcome the world in 2026!”

Renovations and upgrades at the Killarney Park training site are underway and the City is advancing its planning for the FIFA Fan Festival and other activities. Renovations and upgrades to BC Place also continue. These improvements will make the stadium more accessible and help it remain modern and competitive so it can continue to attract and host the world’s best sports, music and events.

Learn More:

For provincial cost, revenue, economic benefit estimates for FIFA World Cup 26, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Provincial_FIFA_Cost_Update_BG1.pdf

For City of Vancouver cost and revenue estimates for FIFA World Cup 26, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Provincial_FIFA_Cost_Update_BG2.pdf

To learn more about FIFA World Cup 26 Vancouver, visit: https://www.vancouverfwc26.ca/

Yet another South Asian trucker arrested for alleged importation of cocaine from U.S.

24 June 2025

COCAINE SEIZED BY CBSA JUNE 24 — Cocaine seized by CBSA. Photo: CBSA

THE Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced on Tuesday a significant seizure of cocaine at the Blue Water Bridge port of entry in Point Edward, Ontario.

On June 12, a commercial truck arrived from the United States at the Blue Water Bridge port of entry and was referred for a secondary examination. During the inspection of the trailer, border services officers, with the assistance of a detector dog, discovered 161 bricks of suspected cocaine contained in six boxes.

The total weight of the suspected narcotics was 187 kg, with an estimated street value of $23.3 million.

The CBSA arrested Karamveer Singh, 27, of Brampton, Ontario, and transferred him and the suspected narcotics to the custody of the RCMP. Singh has been charged by the RCMP with importation of cocaine, and possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The investigation is ongoing.

To date this year, border services officers have seized a total of 978 kg of cocaine at Southern Ontario ports of entry.

Earlier this month, Ontario’s Peel Regional Police announced that working with national and international partners they had dismantled a transnational organized criminal network trafficking illicit drugs into the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

The investigation was the largest drug seizure in the service’s history – with nearly $50 million worth of cocaine seized.

Between February and May, information from Peel Regional Police lead to:

CBSA intercepting a commercial truck at the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, which led to the seizure of 127 kilograms of cocaine concealed in the trailer and the arrest of the driver
CBSA intercepting another truck at the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, which led to the seizure of 50 kilograms of cocaine hidden within the trailer and the arrest of the driver, with support from the RCMP.

Additional seizures were also made across the GTA in connection with commercial trucking by Peel Regional Police, some of which included individuals in possession of loaded firearms at the time of arrest

As of June 6, nine men were arrested and charged in connection with the investigation.

Seven of them were South Asians:

Manpreet Singh, 44-year-old, Brampton
Arvinder Powar, 29-year-old, Brampton
Karamjit Singh, 36-year-old man, Caledon
Gurtej Singh, 36-year-old man, Caledon
Sartaj Singh 27-year-old man, Cambridge
Shiv Onkar Singh, 31-year-old man, Georgetown
Sajgith Yogendrarajah, 31-year-old, Toronto

With so many South Asian truckers being caught importing cocaine, many wonder just how many have been successful in smuggling the deadly drug into Canada and making a fortune.

Is that the reason why so many South Asian truckers just keep trying their luck?

Delta’s 2024 Annual Report showcases progress and community impact

24 June 2025

THE City of Delta’s 2024 Annual Report was officially approved by Council at the June 23 meeting. The comprehensive 84-page document outlines the City’s strategic goals, key accomplishments, 2025 objectives, audited financial statements, and permissive tax exemptions.

The full report is available to the public at delta.ca/AnnualReport.

Prepared in accordance with the Community Charter, the Annual Report reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsible governance. It highlights Delta’s progress on the five strategic goals and priorities identified by Council:

Build Housing and Grow Sustainably

Exceeded the City’s ﬁrst-year housing target under the Province’s Housing Supply Act, adding 561 net new housing units.
Updated the Oﬃcial Community Plan and introduced new zoning to enable small-scale multi-unit housing.
Hosted a successful “Plan-A-Thon” event, welcoming over 300 attendees to learn about housing and engage directly with planning, inspections, and engineering staff.

Enhance Recreational Facilities

Broke ground on a new synthetic turf ﬁeld at Mackie Park which is set to open in 2025.
Constructed a fully fenced off-leash dog park at North Delta Community Park and delivered a new off-leash space at Pebble Hill Park.
Made signiﬁcant progress on the now completed Delta Secondary School Track and Inﬁeld project.
Advanced the $130 million Winskill Renewal Project, completing the schematic design for a new aquatic and fitness facility and an updated plan for park improvements.

Lead Responsibly

Expanded public engagement for the 2025 budget through in-person open houses and an online information session, giving residents more opportunities to share ideas and feedback.
Enlarged the City’s water meter program, installing 227 new meters to support conservation and fair billing.
Created a Facilities and Major Projects department to strengthen asset management and support future growth.

Build an Inclusive and Safe Community

Approved a new Youth and Kids Pass (YAK Pass), providing free drop-in access to the City’s Parks Recreation and Culture facilities and activities for all Delta residents aged 18 and under.
Coordinated improvements to six crosswalk locations as well as the installation of traﬃc calming measures at 17 elementary schools.
Advanced preparations for the now open North Delta Youth Hub to deliver vital supports and services to local youth.

Create a More Vibrant Community

Hosted much-loved events like the Boundary Bay Airshow, Canada Day, and the Luminary Festival.
Welcomed over 30,000 attendees to Paterson Park at the three-day Barnside Harvest Festival—one of Delta’s largest-ever events that the City is proud to sponsor.
Explored new opportunities for a tourist accommodation and wharf upgrades as part of the City’s ongoing revitalization efforts in Ladner Village.

“From improving recreational amenities to supporting housing growth, to advancing climate resilience, community safety, and equity—2024 was a year marked by action and collaboration at the City of Delta. This Annual Report encompasses one year of activity led by Delta Council and staff, along with the commitment of many groups and individuals in Delta,” said Delta Mayor George V. Harvie.

“We are especially grateful to the individuals and organizations who contribute to making Delta a welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive city for all. We encourage residents to explore the Annual Report and learn more about the progress we’ve made together.”

Pursuant to sections 98 and 99 of the Community Charter, B.C. municipalities are required to produce an annual report before June 30each year and to make the report available for public inspection. Delta’s 2024 Annual Report was made available for public inspection both online and in-person at Delta City Hall beginning June 9.

The City notes Delta’s Annual Report is an essential tool for keeping the public informed of the its activities and future plans. It is more than just a review of the past year—it is a testament to the City’s shared values, strategic direction, and the collective efforts that are shaping a stronger, more sustainable future for the community.

Surrey’s one-year of progress connecting with residents through multilingual initiatives

24 June 2025

SURREY Healthy Active Aging Guide Photo — Healthy Active Aging Guide. Photo: City of Surrey

More than 100 media releases and statements issued in Punjabi

ONE year since launching multilingual outreach initiatives, the City of Surrey is reporting strong progress in connecting more residents to City services, programs, and information.

Since its approval in September 2024, the City’s first Multilingual Communications Policy has led to major outreach initiatives for multicultural audiences to reduce barriers and strengthen engagement, including the Official Community Plan update, the Healthy Active Aging Guide, and more than 100 media releases and statements issued in Punjabi.

“As a city that celebrates its diversity, this policy was long overdue,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “With nearly one in five Surrey residents speaking Punjabi at home, the Multilingual Communications Policy has made an immediate impact in breaking down language barriers and improving engagement with a large segment of Surrey’s population. As Surrey continues to grow and diversify, investment in multilingual communications remains a key priority to ensure all residents can access and engage with city services.”

An update on the City’s multilingual communications initiatives was presented to Council at Monday’s meeting, highlighting several key accomplishments since the Policy was implemented.

“Significant progress has been made since Council adopted the policy last September,” said Joey Jatinder Singh Brar, General Manager of Corporate Services. “We expanded our social media, radio, video, and print channels to ensure the translated information would have the broadest reach possible. The improved access to City information and services have helped to better engage and connect with the diverse population in Surrey.”

As per the Policy, translation may occur in languages that are spoken most often at home by 5% or more of Surrey residents across the City, or within a town centre based on current Census data. With 18% of Surrey residents speaking Punjabi at home, the expansion of communication and outreach initiatives have improved access to City services and information, fostering inclusion, trust, and a stronger sense of community belonging.

Multilingual campaigns and initiatives from the past year include:

Official Community Plan Update Campaign
Healthy Active Aging Guide
2025 Budget Consultation
Tax Matters Campaign
Waste Management education
2024 Report to the Community
2024 Fire Services Annual Report
Multilingual Signage

Click here for more information.

“New generation” digital home security + old-fashioned common sense while you’re away on vacation

24 June 2025

MVCS home security Annis and Irvine — Linda Annis and Rob Irvine. Photo submitted

YOUR trusty analog home security video camera has done you well, but moving to today’s newer digital technology can provide an even more robust “digital watchdog” you and your home deserve when you go away on vacation.

Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers’ annual advice about safety and security while you’re away from home this summer includes considering some of the latest home security technology that does more than just record images outside your home.

“For example, people are getting on board with newer technology that allows you to use an ‘NVR’ or Network Video Recorder that uses wireless Internet Protocol (IP) cameras to transmit digital video images,” says Rob Irvine of First Choice Security Systems in Surrey, who demonstrated some of the new equipment on Tuesday with Linda Annis, Executive Director of Metro Vancouver Crime Stoppers.

“Other systems like garage door keypads with cameras can also help protect your garage and your home. These solutions don’t replace the common sense solutions the rest of should also follow, but they do add extra, reliable protection.”

Linda Annis also pointed out voluntary closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera registries are offered in some parts of the Lower Mainland. This allows police to know which homeowners have security cameras and are willing to share video evidence with police during a crime investigation in a given neighbourhood.

Surrey’s “Project IRIS”, North Vancouver RCMP’s “Project OPTIC”, Delta’s Community Watch Program and Port Coquitlam’s CCTV Registry are examples. All information is confidential, and police do not have access to any home security recordings without the owner’s consent.

“The latest in security systems and CCTV registries add an extra blanket of security as we continue to follow our usual common sense steps to prevent becoming victims of burglars and porch pirates,” Annis says.

“Crooks don’t go on vacation. If you notice something out of the ordinary in your neighbourhood, or have information about who’s behind any crime, send an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers. If your tip leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.”

Additional preventive measures:

Make sure boxes from online deliveries are quickly picked up from your doorstep to thwart porch pirates. Ask a neighbour to pick them up if you leave town and return the favour when they go away.
Resist the urge to post exciting vacation pictures on social media until you’re back. Nothing says “I’m not home” louder than pictures of you in a faraway holiday destination.
Make sure your car and garage doors are closed and locked up tight, along with doors and windows.
Trim your shrubs to eliminate hiding spots, and don’t leave bikes or barbeques in your yard to be stolen.

Surrey adding 60 new bus shelters to improve transit experience

24 June 2025

PAGE 14 STORY 2 SURREY Transit-Bus-Shelter — Photo: City of Surrey

THE City of Surrey is improving the transit experience for residents by adding up to 60 new bus shelters this year, as part of a two-phased initiative to increase weather protection and accessibility for transit users across the city.

“With transit ridership in Surrey growing faster than anywhere else in Metro Vancouver, we’re committed to making public transit more comfortable and accessible for everyone,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke on Tuesday. “This expansion of our bus shelter network is a smart, cost-effective way to support our growing population and ensure that all residents can benefit from improved transit infrastructure.”

The initiative, led by the City’s Engineering Department in partnership with Pattison Outdoor Advertising, will begin in July 2025. The first phase will see 30 new shelters installed at high-ridership locations at no cost to the City. The second phase, funded through the 2025 Community Works Fund Agreement (CWFA), will support the installation of up to 30 additional shelters in underserved areas based on public feedback and accessibility needs.

The City currently has 1,425 bus stops, but only 25% are equipped with shelters. The new installations will prioritize high-traffic areas such as 128 Street in Newton and 108 Avenue in City Centre, while also addressing community-identified needs in other neighbourhoods.

The City’s long-term agreement with Pattison allows for up to 10 shelters to be installed annually at the City’s discretion. By leveraging unused allocations from previous years, Pattison has agreed to install 30 shelters in 2025. The CWFA funding of $950,000 will help fund up to 30 additional bus stops throughout the city.

For more information, read the City’s Corporate Report: www.surrey.ca/sites/default/files/corporate-reports/CR_2025-R128.pdf.

Locally acquired measles cases confirmed in Chilliwack, says Fraser Health

24 June 2025

MEASLES infection has been confirmed in three unvaccinated Chilliwack residents since June 20, 2025. Based on the information gathered to date, these cases appear to be locally acquired, with no reported travel history. Fraser Health Public Health is investigating to determine the source of infection.

Members of the public may have been exposed to measles if they were in the following locations:

Mark’s (45737 Luckakuck Way, Chilliwack, V2R 4E8) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on June 16.
Redwing Shoe Store (8249 Eagle Landing Pkwy #716, Chilliwack, V2R 0P9) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on June 16.
Walmart (8249 Eagle Landing Pkwy, Chilliwack, BC V2R 0N1) from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. on June 16.
Ahmad Barber Shop (7325 Vedder Rd #100, Chilliwack, BC V2R 4E4) from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on June 18.

The list above includes known exposure locations where Public Health is unable to identify those exposed and contact them directly. Individuals exposed in other identified settings are being informed by Public Health directly through a phone call or a letter. For up-to-date measles case counts and exposure notices in B.C., visit www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/measles#cases.

Measles is a highly infectious disease transmitted by the airborne route. People who are at risk of getting measles are those who never had measles disease and have not had two doses of a measles vaccine after 12 months of age. Symptoms can start between seven to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms of measles include fever, dry cough, runny nose, and red eyes; followed a few days later by a rash that starts on the face and spreads rapidly down to the rest of the body. Measles can cause complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and even death. In rare cases, complications can develop many years after someone has had measles.

For people who are not fully protected against measles and may have been exposed, they can take action to reduce the chance of contracting measles and/or spreading the disease to others. These actions include the following public health recommendations:

Monitor for any symptoms of measles that can develop up to 21 days after being exposed.

If you were born in 1970 or later and have not had two doses of measles vaccine, you should get a dose of measles vaccine right away, free of charge. It is most effective if received within three days of being exposed but still can be received after that.
Certain people should not get the measles vaccine. These include babies less than six months of age, pregnant people, and people with certain immune conditions. If you, or your child, are in one of these groups, please call Fraser Health Public Health (604-507-5471) as soon as possible and no later than six days after being exposed. You may be advised that you, or your child, receive a medication that can prevent measles disease. This is also provided free of charge.

If you develop measles-like symptoms, Public Health recommends you:

Stay home and away from others who may not be protected, or those at higher risk for measles-related complications (babies less than six months of age, pregnant people, and people with certain immune conditions)
Contact Fraser Health Public Health (604-507-5471) for additional advice on testing, isolation and preventing spread to others.
If urgent care is needed (e.g. high fever), please inform your health care provider before you visit them so they can take precautions to prevent measles being spread to others, wear a mask (e.g. waiting rooms) and avoid using public transportation.

Given the measles activity across the country, Fraser Health encourages everyone to take this opportunity to review their immunization status. Those born in 1970 or later who have not received any dose, or have only received one dose of measles vaccine should obtain a dose of vaccine now to protect themselves against current or future exposures. Measles vaccine is available free of charge at public health units and certain family doctors and walk-in clinics. Pharmacists can immunize adults and children over five years old. Please call ahead to ensure vaccine is available at your preferred location.

Call to book an appointment at a Public Health Unit.

Telephone booking is available Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
- 604-702-4906 for residents of Mission, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Agassiz, and Hope.
- 604-476-7087 for all other areas of Fraser Health.
- Click here for a list of public health unit locations.
Book an appointment at a community pharmacy.
- Find a local pharmacy offering MMR vaccine here.

For general information about measles, visit www.healthlinkbc.ca/healthlinkbc-files/measles.

For information on accessing your immunization history visit www.healthlinkbc.ca/health-library/immunizations/information-and-safety/records.

The mysterious “Mr. X” in Air India bombing case has died, says RCMP

24 June 2025

PAGE 7 AIR INDIA REYAT indira — Inderjit Singh Reyat Photo: Indira Prahst

THE RCMP have told the media that the mysterious suspect known as “Mr. X” who was with convicted Air India bombmaker Inderjit Singh Reyat has died before facing charges.

Media has reported that police said in an email that investigators had “uncovered information related to a suspect they believe was involved in testing an explosive device prior to the Air India terrorist attack on June 23, 1985.”

The suspect remains unnamed because police did not have enough evidence to unequivocally confirm that he was indeed the person.

In his 2003 testimony at the Air India trial, Reyat said that Talwinder Singh Parmar (who is considered the mastermind of the Air India bombing plot and who was apparently murdered by Indian police in Punjab before he could be charged by the RCMP) asked him to make an explosive device in 1984 and that he agreed because he was very upset at the way the Indian government had treated Sikhs. He said he bought material for the device and claimed that Parmar did not tell him what it would be used for. When Reyat tested the explosive device, the mysterious “Mr. X” was present.

In 2014, the B.C. Appeal Court rejected Reyat’s plea to cut his nine-year prison term that he received in January 2011 for lying 19 times during his Air India testimony to six or seven years. The court said that the offence was grave. The judges ruled that the trial judge did not err in finding denunciation was a key factor in sentencing.

The judges ruled: “The perjured testimony went to central events. Mr. Reyat was involved with the scheme to bomb Air India, was asked by Mr. Parmar to build a bomb, and met Mr. X in relation to this request. It would be speculative to say his evidence would have ended there. By his false denials of recollection, Mr. Reyat foreclosed a proper and relevant line of questioning.”

Reyat’s lawyer Ian Donaldson in November 2013 had told the court that Reyat was remorseful about the Air India bombing deaths and didn’t gain anything by lying during testimony against his co-accused.

In 1991, Reyat was sentenced to 10 years in prison for manslaughter in connection with the bombing at Japan’s Narita airport in June of 1985 that killed two baggage handlers. In February of 2003 he pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the June 1985 Air India bombing after having been charged with conspiracy to commit murder and first-degree murder in 2001. He was charged with perjury in February 2006 while still in jail. He was out on bail from July 2008 until his conviction in September 2010.

Ripudaman Singh Malik of Vancouver and Ajaib Singh Bagri of Kamloops were acquitted in the Air India trial.

The Supreme Court of Canada rejected Reyat’s request in January 2014 for a hearing on his appeal against his perjury conviction in the Air India Bombing Trial. The court gave no reasons for its decision. Reyat had filed a notice of appeal to the B.C. Court of Appeal after he was sentenced on January 7, 2011. In October 2012, he had appealed to the Supreme Court of Canada.

Donaldson had told the court in November 2013 that Reyat didn’t concoct a false story to get someone exonerated. He also said that Reyat had been of “excellent, indeed impeccable, behaviour” in custody.

But Justice Mary Saunders said that Reyat had rejected one of the values of Canadian society – the administration of the justice system – by refusing to say what he knew when questioned at the Air India trial.

She said: “In a peculiar way, it is very, very bad to have somebody testify and give a completely false account.

“There is something almost inherently more offensive to have somebody sit there and say, ‘I’m not going to tell you, I don’t remember,’ coming up with little lies and prevarications that completely eliminates the potential of finding out what that witness would be prepared to say.”

Full judgement at:

http://www.courts.gov.bc.ca/jdb-txt/CA/14/01/2014BCCA0101.htm

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