Traffic Enforcement Officer Sukhvinder Sunger has dedicated his career to serving and protecting the residents of Vancouver as a proud member of the Vancouver Police Department (VPD). With his many years of experience in law enforcement, he has made incredible contributions to the community, not just through his work as a police officer but also through his deep involvement with the Vancouver Police Pipe Band - the world’s oldest, continuously serving, non-militray pipe band.
A Career in Law Enforcement
Raised in Victoria, it was only natural for Constable Sunger to begin his journey in law enforcement with the Victoria Police Department as a reserve constable. His teenage dream of becoming a police officer was finally realized after he joined the VPD in 2002. As a member of the VPD for the past 23 years, he works tirelessly to uphold justice and ensure the safety of Vancouver’s diverse population. With a diploma in criminal justice, he goes above and beyond enforcing the law—he is trusted in the community and actively engages with citizens to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and the public.
Over the years, Constable Sunger has been in various roles within the department—most notably his appointment as a United Nations Peacekeeper in South Sudan: “It was a life-changing experience, and I’m never going to be the same anymore. But the Shabads I carried on a USB drive really helped me during the time.”
A Passion for Music and Culture
Beyond his responsibilities as a police officer, Constable Sunger is a drummer with the Vancouver Police Pipe Band. The band, known for its rich Highland tradition and deep-rooted connection to both the police force and the community, is a prestigious musical group that represents the VPD at events locally and internationally.
Constable Sunger, the first person of color to join the band since its inception in 1914, has performed in Switzerland, Belgium, France, and most notably in India, where the band visited Amritsar, Nawanshahar, and Chandigarh to commemorate 100 years of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. As a South Asian member of the band, he helps bring greater cultural diversity to the group while inspiring others from the community to accept opportunities in different fields. He particularly takes pride in representing his heritage through the music he plays.
A Message for the South Asian Community
Constable Sunger's journey is an inspiration for many, particularly within the South Asian community. His message to young South Asians is one of perseverance and confidence. He encourages individuals to step outside of their comfort zones, pursue their dreams with dedication, and never shy away from new opportunities.
Through his work with the Vancouver Police Department and his involvement in the Vancouver Police Pipe Band, Constable Sukhvinder Sunger continues to embody dedication, passion, and cultural pride, proving that service to the community extends far beyond the badge.