As many as 14 gunshots were fired at the residence of the son of a Hindu temple president in Surrey, in the Canadian province of British Columbia. The incident unfolded at around 8:03 a.m. on December 27 in the 14900 block of 80 Avenue. According to a Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) statement, the targeted residence belongs to the family of Satish Kumar, the president of the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir in Surrey.
The Surrey RCMP General Investigation Unit is currently conducting an investigation to determine the motive behind the attack, and no identities of the perpetrators have been released at this time. The officers are examining the scene, speaking with witnesses, and canvassing the neighborhood for any potential CCTV footage that could help shed light on the incident.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in connection with the shooting, but the residence sustained damage consistent with bullet holes. The Surrey Police have not confirmed any link between this attack and recent threats received by the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir.
In November, Chandra Arya, an India-origin Canadian member of Parliament, shared a video allegedly depicting Pro Khalistani supporters in Surrey who claimed to have intentions of causing trouble at the Hindu Lakshmi Narayan Mandir.
The Surrey RCMP is urging anyone with information or dashcam footage related to the incident to come forward and assist with their ongoing investigation. The police have not disclosed any further details regarding the nature of the attack or any potential suspects involved.
The incident at the residence of the temple president’s son has raised concerns about the safety and security of the Hindu community in Surrey. Members of the community are calling for increased vigilance and protection, especially for religious institutions such as the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, and the investigation is still ongoing. The RCMP is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents in Surrey and will continue to work diligently to bring those responsible to justice.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community harmony and the need for individuals of all backgrounds to come together to condemn acts of violence and intolerance. The Hindu community in Surrey and beyond deserves to feel safe and secure, and it is the collective responsibility of society to ensure that these values are upheld.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the Surrey RCMP or provide any relevant details that may assist with the investigation.
