Canada: Law Enforcement Investigates Overnight Shooting at Residence of Associate to Hardeep Nijjar

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into an overnight shooting incident at the South Surrey residence of Simranjeet Singh, reported to be a friend of India-designated Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Responding to reports of gunshots just after 1:20 am on Thursday at a residence near the 2800 block of 154 Street, Surry RCMP issued a statement detailing their swift response to the incident. Corporal Sarbjit Sangha stated that officers have remained in the area, engaging with neighbors and witnesses. Currently, they are meticulously reviewing CCTV footage to glean more information about the shooting. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

“The investigation is still in its very early stages, so the motive of this shooting has not been determined as of this time,” she commented.

Simranjeet Singh’s association with Hardeep Singh Nijjar adds a layer of complexity to the investigation. Nijjar’s death in Surrey in June 2023 has been a contentious issue, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau making “credible allegations” in September of Indian government involvement. India vehemently denied these claims, leading to strained relations between the two nations.

Trudeau’s decision to make these allegations public in December, anticipating leaks, further heightened tensions. The recent shooting incident at Singh’s residence now adds another dimension to the diplomatic complexities between Canada and India.

As the RCMP continues its investigation, authorities remain cautious about drawing connections to broader geopolitical issues until more information is gathered. The motive behind the shooting remains undetermined, and the focus remains on unraveling the circumstances surrounding this concerning incident in South Surrey.