Calgary Police Conduct Downtown Safety Sweep Amid Rising Crime
Following the municipal election and ahead of the city budget announcement, Calgary police launched a safety operation on Wednesday, focusing on downtown to confront rising crime rates. Officers from various jurisdictions were mobilized to patrol streets and transit hubs as part of Operation Order, which combined law enforcement efforts with community outreach.
Operation Results and Police Actions
By 4:30 p.m., Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan reported that officers had:
- Arrested 20 individuals
- Executed 180 outstanding warrants
- Seized multiple weapons
- Referred over 60 vulnerable residents to social services
Violence Reaches Six-Year High in Downtown Core
City statistics reveal violence in the core areas—including the Beltline, Chinatown, Downtown East Village, Downtown West End, Eau Claire, and the Downtown Commercial Core—is at its highest point in six years.
“We know that many Calgarians are feeling uneasy in our downtown core,” said Chief McLellan.
Key Crime Drivers
Rising violent crime is mainly fueled by street robberies and assaults, with many victims being shelter workers and law enforcement personnel. Additionally, disorder-related incidents such as disturbances, unwanted guests, and drug-related concerns have surged to a six-year peak.
“This is not just about statistics. This is also about how people feel when they walk through our streets, ride transit or visit public spaces,” McLellan emphasized.
Police Commitment to Community Safety
Mayor and police efforts underline the message “Enough is enough” as authorities increase vigilance to restore safety and order downtown.
Summary: Calgary police intensified a downtown campaign combining arrests, warrant executions, and social service referrals as violent crime and disorder reach six-year highs, aiming to improve public safety and community confidence.