Surrey, BC — As Surrey transitions from the Surrey RCMP to the BC RCMP Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit, Chief Superintendent Wendy Mehat, the new Officer-in-Charge, expressed deep gratitude on behalf of the RCMP officers and municipal employees for the opportunity to serve the community over the past 72 years.
“This transition is a full-circle moment for me,” said Chief Superintendent Mehat. “I began my career in Surrey in 2000 as a patrol constable in Whalley, and it is an immense honour to return to lead this dedicated team. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Assistant Commissioner Brian Edwards and the Senior Leadership Team for their exceptional guidance over the years.”
Chief Superintendent Mehat reflected on the RCMP’s history in Surrey, from its beginnings in 1951 when 15 constables patrolled a quiet suburb, to becoming the largest RCMP detachment in the country with over 1,000 officers and staff. She acknowledged the remarkable growth of Surrey into a vibrant urban centre and the collaborative efforts with community leaders and partner agencies that have supported public safety and community well-being.
Special recognition was given to the five fallen RCMP officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to Surrey: Constable John Baldwinson, Constable Terrance Draginda, Constable Archille Lepine, Constable Roger Pierlet, and Constable Adrian Oliver. “They remain in our hearts and minds, and we will never forget their service and sacrifice,” Mehat stated.
As the transition unfolds over the next two years, RCMP officers will continue to serve Surrey in key capacities. Frontline RCMP officers will remain active in Guildford, Cloverdale, and South Surrey, while investigative services, including serious crimes, criminal collision investigations, and drug and gang enforcement, will also remain under RCMP leadership.
The newly formed BC RCMP Surrey Provincial Operations Support Unit, previously the Surrey RCMP, will work closely with the Surrey Police Service (SPS) to ensure a seamless transition and uninterrupted law enforcement services. “Our team remains committed to offering the same level of professionalism and community engagement that Surrey residents expect,” Mehat emphasized.
Expressing gratitude to the community, Mehat added, “Thank you, residents, for allowing us to serve you. It has been our greatest honour, and we remain dedicated to protecting and supporting this city as active participants in the community.”
Despite the name change, many of the officers and staff will remain the same, ensuring continuity and a shared commitment to Surrey’s safety and well-being.