Residents and merchants of Montreal’s Chinatown concerned with increased crime and violence
Posted July 28, 2023 2:43 pm.
Last Updated July 28, 2023 3:21 pm.
Several merchants and residents in Montreal’s Chinatown say they are facing more frequent acts of crime and violence related to drug consumption in the area.
“The vulnerable citizens in Chinatown they’re afraid to come out. Even in broad daylight they’re afraid to come out,” said Bryant Chang, vice president of the Chinese Association of Montreal.
Chinatown residents are concerned about safety in the community. (Photo Credit: Martin Daigle, CityNews)
They say they’ve seen an increase in vandalism, theft, and aggressive behavior from people experiencing homelessness in the neighborhood. Particularly since the homeless camp under the Ville-Marie underpass was closed and since an action plan was put in place to address the homelessness and crime situation in the nearby village.
“These homeless and transient crowd are desperate and resorting to all kinds of aggressive behaviors towards the most vulnerable citizens of Chinatown – seniors, women, and children.”
Merchants joined by the Chinese Association of Montreal shared their concerns with media on Friday.
“I have never ever experienced things so insecure, chaotic, there’s no law and order here. I find that it’s time to put a stop to all that. If we don’t do anything things will get worst and worst.” explained Bill Wong, long time resident and merchant of Chinatown.
They are calling on municipal authorities and the Montreal police to create a task force to work with merchants and community associations for concrete action to improve security and prevent crime including more police presence, the installation of additional surveillance cameras, supporting victims of crime, among other things.
“At this moment we feel abandoned the crime that is taking place far outnumbers the surveillance taking place,” said Bryant.
SPVM car in Chinatown. (Photo Credit: Martin Daigle, CityNews)
