B.C. and Washington state law enforcement officials are continuing to work together to combat cross-border crime.

Senior officials and operational staff met yesterday for the annual Pacific Region Cross-Border Law Enforcement Forum.

The meeting focused on sharing information and best practices to address organized crime, extortion, the illegal drug trade, gangs, illegal firearms, human trafficking, and other public safety concerns.

“Crime doesn’t respect borders, and by working together with Washington state law enforcement, we can more effectively crack down on offenders and help keep people and communities safer,” said Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

“British Columbia’s longstanding partnership with Washington state remains strong. Our cross-border co-ordination and co-operation is helping to tackle tough challenges, such as organized crime, extortion and the illicit drug trade that harm people and businesses in B.C. communities.”

Officials also discussed lessons learned from providing security during FIFA World Cup matches in Vancouver and Seattle, as well as efforts to disrupt extortion networks.

The province says cross-border cooperation has already helped weaken transnational extortion networks.

B.C. officials also shared information about Track and Trace, a pilot project using digital technology and lab robotics to analyze and track the flow of toxic drugs.

The province says the technology could also help create early-warning systems to alert people when there's an increased danger from illicit drugs in their area.

The Pacific Region Cross-Border Law Enforcement Forum was established through a 2024 agreement calling for annual meetings between B.C. and Washington officials.

The province says the partnership is part of its broader Organized Crime Strategy aimed at combating gangs and organized crime and keeping communities safe.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.