Calgary Police Conduct Downtown Safety Sweep Amid Rising Crime
Following the municipal election and ahead of the city budget announcement, Calgary police launched a visible safety operation in the downtown core on Wednesday to tackle increasing crime rates.
Officers from various jurisdictions joined forces to patrol downtown streets and transit hubs under Operation Order, which combined community engagement with law enforcement efforts.
Operation Results and Actions
- By 4:30 p.m., police had arrested 20 individuals.
- They executed 180 outstanding warrants.
- Several weapons were confiscated during the sweep.
- More than 60 vulnerable residents were referred to social services.
Rising Violence in the Downtown Core
City data shows violence in neighborhoods such as the Beltline, Chinatown, Downtown East Village, Downtown West End, Eau Claire, and the Downtown Commercial Core is at a six-year high.
“We know that many Calgarians are feeling uneasy in our downtown core,” said Calgary Police Chief Katie McLellan.
Primary Drivers of Crime Increase
The chief highlighted that street robberies and assaults are the main contributors to the surge in violent crime, with numerous assaults directed at shelter workers and law enforcement officials.
Disorderly conduct, including calls about disturbances, unwelcome guests, and drug-related issues, has also reached 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
The police are intensifying efforts to restore safety and address social disorder downtown, emphasizing both enforcement and support for vulnerable populations.
Summary: Calgary police intensified downtown patrols to counter the highest violent crime rates in six years, combining enforcement with outreach to improve public safety and support vulnerable citizens.