Operation Order Sparks Downtown Sweep by Calgary Police Service
On November 5, Calgary Police Service officers gathered in large numbers downtown for a coordinated effort named Operation Order aimed at curbing crime and social disorder. Officers from all districts were briefed and deployed to patrol key areas including the East Village, Stephen Avenue, and Century Gardens.
Addressing Safety Concerns
The operation responded to the growing perception among Calgarians that the downtown area is unsafe. Police Chief Katie McLellan highlighted an alarming six-year peak in violence targeting unhoused individuals, security staff, social workers, and law enforcement.
“This is not just about statistics. It’s also about how people feel when they walk through our streets, ride transit or visit public spaces, everyone deserves to feel safe in their city, and this operation will save lives.”
– Chief Katie McLellan
Long-Term Commitment to Safety
Chief McLellan emphasized that Operation Order is not a one-time crackdown but part of an ongoing strategy to improve safety downtown. The police will review and refine their approach based on results and community feedback.
“Today just isn’t a one day blitz. We will continue to do this going forward after today, we will debrief, and we will assess, and we will reassess. This just isn’t one and done.”
– Chief Katie McLellan
As of late afternoon on November 5, the operation was actively underway.
Author's summary: Calgary Police Service launched Operation Order, a sustained initiative to enhance downtown safety and reduce violence against vulnerable groups through coordinated patrols and ongoing community engagement.