The security landscape in British Columbia is currently facing an unprecedented challenge. On February 18, 2026, the provincial government officially launched the Community Advisory Group (CAG) on extortion—a strategic maneuver marking a turning point in how our province handles organized threats against families and business owners.
At Safe & Secure BC, we believe that true protection is a combination of public policy and private preparedness. This briefing analyzes the current crisis, the government’s response, and the physical countermeasures necessary to protect your assets in this high-risk environment.
10-Year Increase
SPS Redeployments
Firearm Incidents
1. Understanding the Crisis: Why Now?
The extortion crisis in the Lower Mainland—specifically affecting Surrey, Abbotsford, and Vancouver—has escalated to a level that Paul Dadwal, Chair of the new CAG, described as “extreme.” The crisis is no longer confined to digital threats; it has manifested in physical violence, including arson and shootings directed at commercial storefronts and private residences.
The severity of the situation is underscored by the recent request from Surrey Police Service (SPS) Chief Norm Lipinski to delay the transition from the RCMP. When public resources are this heavily taxed, the “response gap” grows, making individual Target Hardening a necessity rather than an option.
Strategic Analysis: 2026 Projections
| Sector | Current Challenge | Response |
|---|---|---|
| Law Enforcement | 40+ SPS officers moved to Extortion Task Force | Increased perimeter monitoring |
| Small Business | High-intent threats to South Asian hubs | Restricted keyway systems |
| Public Safety | Surrey transition delays (April 1st deadline) | Target Hardening protocols |
2. Physical Countermeasures: Hardening the Perimeter
While the CAG addresses the “macro” issue of trust and communication, Safe & Secure BC focuses on the physical reality: the entry point. If a criminal cannot easily access your property or duplicate your keys, their leverage decreases significantly.
Absolute Key Control
In many commercial environments, keys are duplicated without the owner’s knowledge. At Safe & Secure BC, we implement Master Key Systems using Restricted Keyways. These keys are legally protected; they cannot be cut by anyone other than the original provider, and only with your specific authorization.
The “Human Element” Protocol
Professional security standpoint suggests the human element is the most common point of failure. We recommend:
- Personnel Turnover: Establish immediate protocols for credential revocation upon staff departure.
- Digital Access: Rotate digital entry codes every 30 days for all delivery and service providers.
- Vetted Partners: Ensure all security vendors are provincially licensed and background-checked.
Conclusion: Strengthening the BC Perimeter
The formation of the Community Advisory Group is a vital step toward a safer British Columbia. However, while we wait for recommendations from Paul Dadwal and his team to take effect, the responsibility for immediate physical safety remains with the property owner.
Secure Your Assets Today
Safe & Secure BC provides the hardware and expertise necessary to navigate the 2026 security landscape.