RCMP investigating 'concerning comments' about bomb made after Surrey's Vaisakhi parade
Police are investigating after “concerning comments” that were made on social media following Surrey’s Vaisakhi Parade.
The parade, which took place last weekend, drew in more than 500,000 people, making the Surrey event the largest Vaisakhi parade in the world outside of India.
An inappropriate comment on Global News’ Facebook, however, also drew the attention of the RCMP.
The person commented on a news story about the event, saying “imagine what one pressure cooker bomb could have done” and calling it a “missed opportunity.”
A screenshot capturing the concerning comment made (Harman Bhangu/Facebook)
A screen shot of the person’s Facebook profile picture, changed to a pressure cooker shortly after making the comment.
Jinny Sims, British Columbia’s Minster of Citizens’ Services and MLA for Surrey-Panorama, was one of the many to bring the concerning comments to light.
Surrey RCMP also confirmed on Twitter that they received multiple reports from social media, private messages, and phone calls to the detachment and that they were investigating the disturbing matter.
Thanks to all who have brought this to our attention via social media, private message and by phone to our detachment. We fully hear your concerns and have been following up on the comments that were made.
— Surrey RCMP (@SurreyRCMP) April 23, 2019
Cpl. Elenore Sturko of the Surrey RCMP has told Daily hive that they began investigating the matter on Sunday and were able to make contact with the person believed responsible with the post.
She explains that no arrests were made, although the investigation is ongoing.
“At the time of making contact, there was no evidence to suggest that there was any danger to the public,” says Sturko.