Calgary Police Service Launches Major Safety Sweep Amid Spike in Violent Crime

 

The Calgary Police Service (CPS) has initiated a significant downtown enforcement operation as violent crime in the city reaches a six-year high.

What’s Going On?

The operation — dubbed “Operation Order” — was rolled out in the city’s central business district earlier today.

Officers from the CPS, transit peace officers and social-services teams were deployed in areas like the Beltline, Chinatown, East Village and along major transit lines.

By mid-afternoon, the sweep had already resulted in 20 arrests and the execution of roughly 180 outstanding warrants.

Police emphasised the dual focus: enforcement of laws and connecting vulnerable individuals with support services.
Why Now?

The city is seeing a marked rise in violent offences and public-safety concerns downtown. According to CPS, concentrations of crime in transit hubs, alleys and public spaces have reached the worst levels in six years.

CPS Chief Katie McLellan stated the message loud and clear: “Enough is enough.” She said the action is not simply about policing but about restoring public confidence.
What the Operation Entails

Officers patrolled high-traffic pedestrian and transit zones, issued by-law citations (including for loitering and open drug use) and made arrests for outstanding warrants.

At the same time, social-service workers engaged with people experiencing homelessness or addiction issues, offering connections to shelters, treatment or support rather than only punitive responses.

Officials also flagged the need for broader policy changes — such as legal-reform, expanded peace-officer powers and regulation of open-air drug use — to underpin long-term improvements.
What It Means for Residents and Businesses

Local businesses in the downtown core have voiced concerns about chronic offenders, graffiti, thefts and general social disorder. The sweep aims to alleviate some of those concerns.

For everyday residents, the heightened police presence is meant to restore a sense of safety and encourage more daytime and evening activity in the downtown area.

The operation also signals that the city is prepared to follow through with sustained efforts, not a one-off blitz. Chief McLellan stressed there will be ongoing enforcement and supports.
Challenges and Next Steps

While enforcement can make an immediate impact, the root causes of downtown disorder — homelessness, addiction, lack of safe daytime spaces — require longer-term, coordinated action between city agencies, NGOs and law enforcement.

Funding is a concern: the city is considering allocating a substantial amount (≈ CAD $61 million) toward downtown safety initiatives, but that requires council approval.

Officers and social-service partners noted the importance of “connection over purely arresting,” emphasising dignity, referrals and support as part of the approach.
Takeaway

Calgary’s downtown is facing a pressing safety challenge as violent crime hits a multi-year high. In response, the Calgary Police Service has triggered a major enforcement and outreach operation to restore calm, reassure residents and apply pressure on the underlying issues. Time will tell whether this more comprehensive approach can reduce crime and improve public perceptions long term — but for now, the message is clear: action is underway.