How Safe Is Surrey, BC?

When you ask the question, how safe is Surrey, BC, the answer depends on how safe it is compared to something else, because everything is relative. In today’s blog article, we are going to look at crime in Surrey, and how that compares to other parts of Canada and the world.

Canada

Surrey currently has the unenviable distinction of being at the top of the list for the highest crime rate in Canada, and not for the first time. In other words, if you look at total crimes committed, Surrey is first.

However, statistics can be misleading, and we have to look at them more closely to get a better understanding. The population of Surrey in 2022 was about 600,000. Most of that crime was drug-related, property crimes, and assaults.

Worldwide

Comparatively speaking, the murder rate in Surrey is not that high. Obviously, any murder is terrible but compared to cities worldwide with the highest murder rates, Surrey’s statistics are quite low. For example, in Colima, Mexico, the murder rate is about 180 homicides per 100,00 (population). In Surrey, BC, in 2022, that rate was about 3.6 per 100,000.

So, yes, compared to other cities in Canada, Surrey has plenty of crime. But Surrey is taking action to lower these rates, and in 2021, Surrey created their own Surrey Police Service. The city has also implemented a number of programs to try to address what causes crime, including some new services aimed at supporting at-risk youth.

If you need the Surrey Police Service, call 9-1-1 for emergencies, or (604) 599-0502 for non-emergencies.

If you have been charged with a criminal offence in Surrey, contact Gagan Nahal at (604) 527-4769 for a free consultation. Gagan Nahal concentrates his law practice on criminal defence. 

Gagan Nahal is a criminal defence lawyer based in Surrey, British Columbia, although he has represented clients across Canada. He works vigorously and tirelessly defending his clients. 

If you have any questions about this article or you would like to talk to Mr. Nahal, please call him directly at (604) 527-4769.