Former Anti-Gang Officer Paul Dadwal Appointed to Lead B.C.'s Extortion Advisory Panel
Paul Dadwal, a former anti-gang police officer who played a crucial role in the high-profile Surrey Six investigation, has been selected to head British Columbia's newly established community advisory group on extortion crimes. The announcement comes as Premier David Eby seeks to improve coordination and communication in addressing extortion threats across the province.
Background and Experience
Dadwal brings extensive law enforcement experience to his new role, having recently retired from the RCMP after a distinguished career. His resume includes significant time with the Surrey RCMP and later overseeing specialized teams for the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team. He is widely recognized as an expert in interrogations, having interviewed key prosecution witnesses during the Surrey Six investigation and successfully convincing some to cooperate with authorities.
Since leaving the RCMP, Dadwal has worked as a security and investigative consultant, further developing his expertise in criminal investigations and community safety matters.
Premier's Concerns and Response
Earlier this week, Premier Eby expressed frustration at what he described as inconsistent communication and information sharing among the various regional task forces working to combat extortion crime. In response, he announced the creation of a community advisory group to ensure citizens affected by extortion have direct access to the province's extortion task force.
"Concerns raised by those who have received threats must be addressed urgently," Eby stated on Thursday. "Information offered by community members must be received and incorporated into investigations immediately. That's why we are establishing a community advisory group on extortion to close any gap between community members and police to solve this crime."
Current Task Force Structure
British Columbia currently has multiple law enforcement groups addressing extortion crimes:
- A provincial task force comprising RCMP and Surrey police officers
- A separate task force of Surrey Police Service officers
- Another task force of Abbotsford police officers
Dadwal's newly formed community group will work alongside these existing provincial task forces, serving as a bridge between affected communities and law enforcement agencies.
Future Direction
While Dadwal has been confirmed as the leader of the advisory group, other members have not yet been named. The group's formation represents a strategic move by the provincial government to enhance community engagement in crime prevention efforts, particularly regarding extortion cases that have affected various communities across British Columbia.
The appointment of someone with Dadwal's specific background in gang investigations and witness interrogation suggests the government is prioritizing practical, experienced leadership in addressing what has become a significant public safety concern in the province.
