Threats, arsons linked to B.C. school

RCMP say 10 people tied to the Justice Institute of B.C., a post-secondary institution based in New Westminster, have been the targets of threats and alleged criminal activity.

Police say the victims have had their homes and vehicles set on fire, and some have also had their homes or cars shot at.

"In late July, an astute investigator recognized a link between seemingly unconnected criminal events occurring throughout the Lower Mainland," said RCMP Chief Supt. Janice Armstrong.

"Disturbingly, it seems innocent people have been subject to arsons of their homes and vehicles, and some have had their residences or vehicles shot at ... These victims do not appear to be affiliated with any criminal activity. Fortunately, no one has been physically injured in these incidents."

Three of the victims work for the Justice Institute, two are former students and the rest are loosely linked to the institution, according to police.

"We have been in contact with all the individuals who were targeted, as well as many others who we think could help advance our investigation," Armstrong said. "I want to emphasize, we do not have any information to indicate that anyone else is at risk at this point."

Police say the incidents have taken place throughout the Lower Mainland, and aren't focused on one specific area. None have occurred at the Justice Institute or its campuses in other locations.

The investigation is ongoing, Armstrong said, so police are limited in the amount of information they can release at this time.

The Justice Institute is cooperating actively with the RCMP and other police forces in this investigation, and has increased security at its campuses.

"As for how the public can help, we’re asking people to be vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious activity to their local police," Armstrong said.