Police sweep through south Calgary as ‘Operation Order’ expands

The Calgary Police Service continued its crackdown on crime and social disorder Wednesday as officers were redeployed to “hot spots” throughout the city.

The third effort of Operation Order saw officers hit the streets through the downtown core, East Village, near Chinook Centre and in Forest Lawn along 17th Avenue S.E.

“We are here, and we will be back to continue to protect and serve this city. Social disorder and criminal behaviour will not define this city,” said CPS Chief Katie McLellan.

“We will do our job with our partners to keep this city safe.”

The aim of the operation, which previously saw downtown sweeps in November and February, is to “proactively engage with people in the identified areas, connecting them with supports and, where necessary, enforcing laws and bylaws.”

Through the morning, officers issued 20 court summonses, eight warrants and 16 referrals to social agencies.

“Our community should get used to seeing more of these operations spread out across the city. They will remain a visible, ongoing part of our response,” Chief McLellan said.

“I continue to hear how people do not feel safe in certain parts of this city. We cannot have this.”