1. What is the significance of being the first South Asian Chief Constable with the Delta Police Department (DPD) and the first internal appointment to Chief in 38 years?
I am very proud of being the first South Asian Chief as it highlights the diversity in policing leadership and ensures representation that reflects our community. This milestone demonstrates the progress our organization has made in developing internal leaders and serves as an inspiration to others who aspire to achieve similar success through dedication and perseverance. Being from within provides both stability and allows me to step into the role with a good understanding of the organization and our culture. It supports business continuity and upholds the department’s mission, vision, and values without disruption. Most importantly for me, it is an opportunity to serve the community with commitment, build on existing relationships, and continue making a meaningful impact.
2. What are some goals you would like to accomplish in your new role?
My goals as Chief align with our Community Safety and Well-Being Plan, focusing on both our community and team. I am committed to strengthening community safety and trust, guided by our No Call Too Small philosophy of addressing issues proactively before they become entrenched. Above all, this means building a resilient, inclusive, and innovative team that is prepared for any challenges, ensuring we deliver effective, community-centered policing while adapting to evolving public safety needs.
3. The Delta Model was discussed when Surrey was looking into its own police force. Now that SPS is established, what are some common goals that you will be focusing on?
All municipal police departments operate under the Police Act, which defines our duties, including maintaining law and order, preventing crime, and enforcing laws. In essence, we all share the same goal of ensuring public safety, and our focus remains on collaboration to best serve our communities.
4. Now that Surrey has a new police force, how is it going to work with them?
We have a strong working relationship with all police partners in the region, including our past collaboration with Surrey RCMP on initiatives along the Scott Road corridor and joint projects. As Surrey Police Service is now Surrey’s police of jurisdiction, we look forward to working with them as well. We are beginning discussions to explore opportunities for partnerships and coordinated efforts to enhance public safety.
5. South Asian businesses have been targeted through extortion calls. Have you worked with the SPS on this, and what reassurance can you provide to the public?
We work closely with all police partners when needed, including with the RCMP National Coordination and Support Team (NCST), to investigate extortion cases targeting South Asian businesses. Our message to the public is clear—if you are a victim, please report it so we can investigate and take action to protect our communities.
6. Crime has consistently made headlines south of the Fraser. How do you hope to mitigate overall crime and not just crime in Delta?
Although our primary responsibility is to the citizens of Delta, we work collaboratively with our other law enforcement partners and stakeholders to address cross-multi-jurisdictional public safety issues. An example would be inter-agency cooperation in addressing the ongoing BC gang conflict. Mitigating crime in Delta requires a multifaceted approach with a flexible deployment model that adapts to evolving trends and community needs. Strong community relationships are essential; our No Call Too Small philosophy ensures a proactive approach, working with our community to prevent issues from becoming entrenched rather than relying solely on reactive policing. We maintain a balance between proactive and reactive strategies, guided by a community-first model that prioritizes local needs and expectations. Decision-making is guided by data and evidence, ensuring effective and responsive policing services. We bring this flexible approach to problem-solving as they arise outside of Delta as well.
7. According to a report to the Delta Police Board released by Statistics Canada, Delta’s CSI score for 2023 is 63.9, slightly higher than 2022, when Delta scored 60. How do you hope to tackle this?
Delta’s CSI remains one of the lowest in the region and well below the provincial (104.1) and national (80.2) averages—a strong indicator of safety, especially compared to other urban communities. This reflects the DPD team’s commitment to proactive policing and strong community partnerships to keep Delta safe. The slight increase in CSI for 2023 is primarily due to two homicides in late 2023: a North Delta shooting victim who later succumbed to injuries and the homicide of a woman in Ladner. In the Ladner case, the suspect, who had a familial relationship with the victim, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder. The North Delta shooting investigation remains ongoing. Despite this increase, Delta remains a safe community, and the DPD remains committed to maintaining low crime levels through proactive policing, intelligence-led strategies, and strong community relationships.
8. Former Chief Neil Dubord penned an open letter addressing decriminalization, as the Portugal model of drug decriminalization, hailed worldwide as a pioneering approach in drug policy, was being considered. How do you feel decriminalization should be approached?
Decriminalization is just one part of addressing the toxic drug crisis and cannot be effective alone. We need a comprehensive strategy that balances both public health and public safety. This includes a robust whole-systems approach, including timely access to and availability of addiction treatment, mental health resources, and ongoing community supports. A successful approach must be well-resourced, carefully implemented, and involve collaboration between health, social services, and law enforcement to ensure it meets the needs of both individuals and the broader community.
9. How effective do you feel the Portugal model would be for decriminalization of drugs for BC, and what would be the far-reaching impact of it?
The Portugal model is not just about the toxic drug crisis; it is a comprehensive drug policy reform that includes decriminalization as one component. However, decriminalization alone was never the sole focus—it was implemented alongside a whole-systems approach that prioritized healthcare, addiction treatment, and social reintegration programs. The Portugal model has been effective in Portugal, so in theory, if implemented the same, it should be effective elsewhere.
10. What message would you like to share with the South Asian community?
My message is one of partnership, safety, and trust. Our team values the strong relationships we have built and remains committed to working collaboratively to address community concerns. I encourage open dialogue and engagement, whether through reporting crimes, sharing concerns, or participating in community initiatives. Public safety is a shared responsibility, and we are here to support, protect, and serve all members of the community. Together, we can continue making Delta a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
