BC expands crime lab to help fight Surrey extortions

In response to extortion shootings and gang violence, the province is expanding the Provincial Forensic Firearms Lab, which plays a crucial role in supporting police investigations related to organized crime, gangs and gun-related violence.

“We are ensuring that police have the tools, resources and intelligence support they need to hold these offenders accountable,” said Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “Expanding the capacity of the Provincial Forensic Firearms Lab will enable police to prioritize forensic testing of weapons in critical criminal files, helping accelerate extortion and other criminal-related charge approvals.”

Demand for the services provided by the lab is increasing. More than $600,000 in new funding will improve efficiency and assist in the timely delivery of forensic results, which will help police agencies throughout B.C. reduce gun violence and hold violent offenders accountable more quickly.

Provincial Forensic Firearms Lab expansion

The Provincial Forensic Firearms Lab allows police to analyze weapons used in criminal activities and seized by police, helping investigators in their efforts to identify and arrest suspects.

With increased demand has come the need for the lab to have a larger space.

The expanded lab will be able to prioritize forensic testing of crucial investigative files and expedite extortion-related charge approvals, while producing provincewide data on guns used in criminal activity to support intelligence-led policing strategies.

The funding, through the federal Gun and Gangs Violence Action fund and administered by the Province, includes money for overtime costs at the lab.

This investment builds on government’s ongoing efforts to address extortion and organized crime by reinforcing initiatives underway and bolstering support in key areas, such as enforcement, community awareness and prevention.

Quick Facts:

Expansion of the Provincial Forensic Firearms Laboratory is expected in the coming months.

The Provincial Forensic Firearms Laboratory was created in 2021 as a centralized firearms intelligence hub for investigations throughout B.C.

During the 2024 calendar year, the lab received nearly 870 exhibit submissions, an increase from 625 exhibit submissions received in 2023.

The Provincial Forensic Firearms Laboratory is working on a project that aims to link B.C. gang conflict incidents through ballistic evidence.