Richmond killing is third gang-related murder in four days: IHIT

RICHMOND (NEWS 1130) — The fatal shooting of a man in Richmond Saturday marks the third gang-related murder in the Lower Mainland in the last four days, according to homicide investigators.

The victim, identified as Dilraj Johal, was found with “multiple gunshot wounds” in a condo near Lansdowne Road and Number 3 Road in Richmond late Saturday night. He later died from his injuries.

A man was also shot in Coquitlam Saturday night but police have not said whether that is also connected to the ongoing gang conflict.

On Thursday, 29-year-old Anees Mohammed man was killed at Richmond’s Steveston Community Park, one day after 24-year-old Gary Kang was shot at his home in Surrey.

It’s no secret that IHIT has had an eventful past two weeks, and our investigators are working long hours,” said Insp. Michelle Tansey with the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team at a news conference Sunday. 

“IHIT has had similar situations in our history. Where we have faced several homicides in quick succession section related to gang conflicts. These are challenging times, but we are up to the task.”

Tansey said IHIT is working with Mounties, and the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, which is the province’s anti-gang squad to “mitigate further violence.”

#BREAKING: A man has died following a fatal shooting in Richmond last night. It happened at a home in the area of lansdowne mall just before midnight. The victim who was in his 20's was shot multiple times – he has since died from his injuries. IHIT has been called in @NEWS1130

— Tarnjit Kaur Parmar (@Tarnjitkparmar) January 10, 2021

Speaking for the CFSEU, Assistant Commissioner Michael LeSage decried the spate of deadly violence.

“At times, it seems that some have lost the understanding of the value of life. Three families in three nights, have come to grips with losing a loved one. It seems likely more families will be impacted as this trend continues,” he said.

“Losing young men and women in our community is a tragedy and needs to stop. We all have to work together to put an end to these senseless killings.”

He urged anyone who is involved with gangs or who has information to come forward.

“We have great support from the public. But this goes but it goes beyond that. People have information. Gang members are enabled, hidden, and encouraged. If you do not come forward, more people will get hurt and die, even innocent people caught in the crossfire,” he said.

“To those of you to those involved in gangs right now, I say this to you: One person has been killed. This means you as someone who is involved in gang activity are possibly a victim. Now it is time for you to make good choices and get out of it, while you can.”

He also had a message for those responsible for these murders.

“We will relentlessly pursue you until you are held accountable,” he said.