OTTAWA,
ON, May 3, 2024 /CNW/ - The Honourable
Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic
Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs, today issued the
following statement:
"Earlier today, as the RCMP announced, suspects were arrested
and charged for their alleged involvement in the
killing of Mr. Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, was killed in the parking lot his
gurdwara in Surrey, B.C.
The arrests today are the result of months of work by the RCMP's
Integrated Homicide Investigation Team, supported by the Federal
Policing Program, the Surrey RCMP
Detachment and other partner agencies. The work doesn't end here
and, as the work continues, I will underscore that there are
separate and distinct investigations ongoing.
Canada is a rule of law country
and the protection of our citizens are fundamental. Every Canadian
has the fundamental right to live safely and free of threats of
violence.
The murder of Mr. Nijjar was a shock to the community in
Surrey and indeed all Canadians.
My thoughts are with Mr. Nijjar's family, friends and community
members. Today's arrests mark significant progress in the work of
the RCMP to holding those responsible for killing Mr. Nijjar
accountable for their actions through our justice system.
While today's actions by the RCMP may be welcome news, I know
that many Canadians, particularly members of the Indo-Canadian
community, may still have questions or concerns. I encourage
everyone affected by this to put their trust in the justice system
and know that your safety is our priority. My department and its
security partners continue to work closely with provinces,
territories, municipalities and local police to ensure the safety
and security of all Canadians.
Over the coming days, my department officials and I will
continue to engage with key stakeholders and community groups. We
want to hear their concerns and work with them to foster trust and
open communications.
I would like to thank the RCMP and their law enforcement
partners for their thorough investigation that resulted in the
arrests and charges announced today."
SOURCE Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada