In response to the recent municipal election and amidst the upcoming city budget discussions, Calgary police officers conducted a proactive operation in the downtown area to combat the escalating crime levels. The initiative, known as Operation Order, involved the deployment of a significant number of officers from various units to patrol downtown streets and transit hubs, focusing on a blend of community engagement and law enforcement.
By late afternoon, Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan reported that 20 individuals had been arrested, 180 outstanding warrants were executed, and multiple weapons were seized. Furthermore, over 60 vulnerable members of the community were referred to social support services. City data revealed that violence in key downtown areas, including the Beltline, Chinatown, and others, had reached a six-year peak.
Chief McLellan acknowledged the heightened unease among Calgarians in the downtown core, particularly due to a surge in street robberies and assaults, with shelter workers and law enforcement often being targeted. Instances of disorder, such as disturbances and drug-related concerns, had also spiked over the past six years, as per city records.
To address these issues, the police operation combined enforcement actions with compassionate care measures. Officers engaged with vulnerable individuals to provide connections to necessary services, while also issuing tickets for bylaw violations and making arrests when needed. McLellan emphasized the importance of preventing criminal records for vulnerable populations and highlighted the significance of linking individuals to support services.
Throughout the operation, updates were shared on social media, showcasing efforts to connect individuals with resources, address outstanding warrants, and address public safety concerns. Business associations in affected areas, like the Beltline and Chinatown, expressed support for the initiative but stressed the need for sustained efforts to tackle recurring crime issues.
Chief McLellan emphasized the ongoing nature of the enforcement activities, refuting claims that it was a one-time event. She underscored the necessity of additional resources and staffing to maintain the momentum in addressing downtown safety concerns. Amid discussions on the city budget, proposed allocations for downtown safety measures are pending council approval.
The operation received support from Public Safety and Emergency Services Minister Mike Ellis, who emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts across government agencies to enhance city safety. McLellan advocated for increased funding for safe shelters and proposed regulations to curb open-air drug use, citing the urgency of the situation and the need for a comprehensive approach to address public safety concerns.