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Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed all state departments and procurement agencies to prepare for the upcoming paddy season, promising every grain produced by farmers will be bought without delay.The state expects 180 lakh tonnes (18 million tonnes) of paddy to arrive in local markets during the season.Mann instructed deputy commissioners, police commanders, market boards and law enforcement to maintain strict oversight and prevent grain influxes from neighboring states.State authorities have already arranged 5.09 lakh (509,000) burlap bags for packaging and submitted a proposal to the Reserve Bank of India to secure a Cash Credit Limit (CCL) for financing.Mann said he will personally monitor the procurement process to ensure farmers face no hurdles while selling their crops.
Abbotsford Police Department is releasing a powerful new video highlighting the real and immediate consequences of becoming involved in extortion-related violence.The video delivers an important message: make the right choice before it is too late. Set in a residential neighbourhood, it is intended to reach individuals who may be involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in, extortion-related violence. Through a realistic depiction of the consequences of this criminal activity, the video demonstrates how a single decision can have devastating and lasting impacts on victims, offenders, their families, and the broader community.The message is clear: involvement in extortion-related violence comes at a significant cost and can change lives forever. At the same time, the video reinforces that there is another path. Those who want to leave criminal activity behind are encouraged to seeksupport through Project Disengage.Launched in December 2025, Project Disengage is an Abbotsford Police Department initiative that connects individuals involved in extortion-related violence with the support and resources needed to exit criminal lifestyles. Supported by the Province of British Columbia, the program focuses on early intervention, helping participants make positivechanges, reduce their involvement in crime, and build safer futures for themselves while contributing to a safer community for everyone.Chief Constable Colin Watson “Extortion-related violence affects entire communities, leaving lasting impacts on victims, families, and those who become involved in criminal activity. This video is partof AbbyPD's broader approach to addressing extortion violence through overt presence, strategic criminal investigations, community engagement, and prevention through intervention. We want individuals who may be pressured or recruited to understand the risks and know that support is available. Through Project Disengage, we are helping
On January 2, Prince George RCMP received a missing person report for 29-year-old Julian Wich, who had not been seen by his family since December 10, 2025.When suspicious circumstances surrounding Julian’s disappearance were identified by investigators early on, the Serious Crime Unit assumed conduct of the file, where it has remained under active investigation. On June 19, Julian’s remains were found in the Fraser River; based on the circumstances surrounding the discovery and the subsequent investigation, police officers have now deemed Julian’s death a homicide.“We are asking that anyone who may have information relating to the death of Julian Wich to come forward and speak with police. Even information that may seem insignificant could assist us in advancing this investigation,” states Corporal Jennifer Cooper, Media Relations Officer for Prince George RCMP.
Two witnesses who provided video, and are willing to testify in court, have helped BC Highway Patrol ticket a driver for allegedly sleeping while driving her Tesla.On August 11, just before 3:30 p.m., on Highway #1 near Mountain Highway in North Vancouver, two witnesses called police about a driver who appeared to be asleep behind the wheel of a Tesla. Both witnesses were in the same vehicle, and the passenger recorded video from the passenger seat. Based on the description provided by the witnesses, and the video evidence, BC Highway Patrol tracked down the Registered Owner of the Tesla at her home in Maple Ridge.The 45-year-old owner of the Tesla matched the description of the suspected sleeper, so she was issued a ticket for driving without due care and attention, section 144(1)(a) of the BC Motor Vehicle Act ($368).“Police will not debate the merits of self-driving technology with sleeping drivers. It’s illegal in BC, and we’re here to enforce the law and keep roads safe,” says Sergeant Michael McLaughlin with BC Highway Patrol. “Driver inattention is a major factor in serious and deadly collisions. You must be completely focussed and alert when you’re behind the wheel of any motor vehicle in BC.”
The Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel has issued a legal opinion clarifying that when a state chooses to participate in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs, all agencies within that state — not only those that administer TANF or SSI benefits — must report individuals known to be not lawfully present in the United States to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).“Congress wrote this requirement plainly,” said Assistant Attorney General T. Elliot Gaiser of the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel. “When a state chooses to participate in TANF, it accepts the obligation to report illegal aliens in the United States. Tax dollars intended to help vulnerable Americans should not perversely encourage illegal entry into the United States, but rather should reinforce our laws and our borders.”“Our clarification does not impose new obligations on states,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Joshua Craddock of the Justice Department’s Office of Legal Counsel and author of the opinion. “It simply restores the original meaning of the statute Congress enacted and ensures that DHS receives the information it is legally entitled to. States that accept TANF funding must abide by federal law, and failure to comply may lead to serious consequences, including loss of program funding.”The Office withdrew a Clinton-era opinion from 1998 that construed the reporting requirement much more narrowly. Under that prior interpretation, only the specific state agencies administering TANF or SSI were required to provide information to federal immigration authorities. All fifty states, the District of Columbia, and several U.S. territories currently participate in TANF and SSI, and federal TANF funding grants exceed $16.4 billion annually.The Office of Legal Counsel’s Sept. 1 opinion explains that Congress defined “State” broadly in the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. As a result, when a state accepts federal TANF or SSI funds, the entire state government — including all component agencies — is bound by federal law to share information with DHS about individuals the state knows to be not lawfully present.The opinion applies prospectively. States will not face retroactive penalties for past reliance on the 1998 interpretation. Federal agencies may rely on OLC’s advice to update TANF and SSI grant agreements and compliance processes to reflect the correct legal standard moving forward.
On August 31, the East District Community Support Unit executed a warrant in the Bronx neighbourhood. Officers located firearms, illicit drugs, and stolen property, leading to the arrest of 9 individuals and 20 criminal charges.In August 2026, the East District Community Support Unit initiated an illicit drugs and firearms investigation at a residence in the 100 block of Harbison Avenue West.On August 31, just after 11:00 a.m., with the assistance of the Tactical Support Unit (TST), Canine Unit (K9), Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems Unit (RPAS), Crisis Negotiation Unit, Rapid Response Unit (RRU), the Major Incident Response Team (MIRT), and the Central District Community Support Unit, officers executed a warrant at the Harbison Avenue West residence and seized 26 ounces of methamphetamine (Estimated Street Value = $9,100), 12-gauge pump action shot gun, SKS semi-automatic rifle, Norco bicycle and drug paraphernalia and packaging materialsNine individuals were located within the residence at the time the warrant was executed and were subsequently arrested without incident.A 33-year-old and 40-year-old man are facing a number of firearms, drug, and property-related charges. Both were released on Undertakings.Veronica Kristen Rojik, (42), has been charged with an outstanding warrant – Fail to Attend Court – Appearance Notice.Michelle Jamie Shawna Leblanc, (37), has been charged with Public Mischief and three outstanding warrants. Both were detained in custody.The other individuals were released without charges.
On 2 September 2026, officials of the Ministry of External Affairs of India and Global Affairs Canada held the annual Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) at Hyderabad House, New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Secretary (East), Rudrendra Tandon, while the Canadian delegation was led by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Arun Thangaraj.Both sides reiterated their shared commitment to conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement negotiations before end of year, with the shared objective of more than doubling bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion / INR 4.65 lakh crore by 2030.The FOC was held against the backdrop of sustained momentum in the bilateral relationship, reflected in the pace of high-level exchanges and progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation since June 2025.Both sides reaffirmed the importance of India-Canada ties, anchored in shared democratic values, respect for principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, and joint commitment to the rule of law.The two sides reviewed progress of various institutional mechanisms, including in energy and critical minerals, science and technology, education, security and defence cooperation, culture, people-to-people ties and consular matters. Both sides welcomed the progress made in strengthening of institutional engagement and dialogue between the two governments.
As part of its plan to modernize land border infrastructure, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is pleased to announce that construction has begun at the Paterson, BC, port of entry.The Paterson port of entry is located in the West Kootenay region of south central British Columbia. It provides traveller and commercial services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The port of entry will remain open during construction and service will continue uninterrupted.The newly redesigned and rebuilt Paterson port of entry will provide border services officers with the modern facilities they need to keep Canadians safe while improving the flow of people and goods. Key features will include enhanced functional space designed to meet officer needs and operational goals, additional space for secondary inspection, including an enclosed garage, and a new inspection booth to process both traveller and commercial vehicles.In April this year , following an open, transparent and competitive procurement process, a contract valued at $18.1 million was awarded to Greyback Construction Ltd to complete the work. Public Services and Procurement Canada led the competitive procurement process and will manage the project on behalf of the CBSA. Construction is expected to be completed by 2028. Updated timelines will be communicated as needed.The CBSA is also engaging with Indigenous communities and working closely with various levels of government, industry stakeholders and U.S. counterparts. The contract includes a requirement for an Indigenous Participation Plan, under which bidders were required to identify opportunities for local Indigenous economic participation. Greyback has committed to subcontracting work to a supplier from the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) valued at a minimum of five per cent of the total construction contract amount.The Paterson port of entry redevelopments are part of the Agency’s Land Border Crossing Project, a plan to renew and upgrade a number of Canadian land ports of entry across the country. "Paterson is an important border crossing in British Columbia’s West Kootenay region and a crucial economic link for the whole province. Once completed, the new port of entry will provide travellers and commercial carriers with a smooth and more efficient border crossing experience, and equip Border Services Officers with modern infrastructure and technologies to support them keep the border secure," said Nina Patel, Regional Director General, Pacific Region, CBSA.
The City’s final free bike valet service at the Penticton Farmers’ Market will be available in downtown Penticton this Saturday, September 5 from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Gyro Park, just off Link Road.More than 1,600 bikes, e-bikes and e-scooters have used the valet so far this season, giving community members and visitors access to free, safe and secure parking while enjoying local events.“The bike valet continues to provide peace of mind for residents and visitors looking for a secure place to park while shopping and enjoying downtown events. Choosing to travel by bike or e-scooter helps reduce short car trips, ease congestion and parking pressure, and support local businesses,” says Sustainability Coordinator Lucie Giraud-Telme. “It also encourages outdoor activity and everyday movement, while reducing emissions and supporting Penticton’s broader climate and transportation goals.”The BC Bike Valet grant, funded by the Province of BC and delivered through the BC Cycling Coalition (BCCC), has supported the service in continuing to operate free of charge. The City’s Environmental Outreach Ambassadors have staffed the valet service each Saturday at the Penticton Farmers’ Market, as well as during major events including Peach Fest, Penticton Scottish Festival and Canada Day.While bike valet is ending at the Farmers’ Market, cyclists can still take advantage of valet service at Skaha Lake Park during the Dragon Boat Festival on Sept. 12 and 13 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Outdoor bike racks are also available at locations throughout downtown Penticton. For businesses and multi-unit residential buildings that want to increase access to bike parking, the City offers bike and scooter racks through the Blue Skies Transportation Fund.
At approximately 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 1, Lake Country RCMP responded to a serious motor vehicle collision on Highway 97 at Lodge Road.BC Ambulance and the Lake Country Fire Department were already on scene attending to the occupants when police arrived. A northbound Toyota Tacoma was attempting to turn left into a pullout directly across from Lodge Road when it was struck by a southbound Acura. The impact caused extensive damage to both vehicles, which came to rest partially blocking the southbound lanes of Highway 97. A 27-year-old female passenger in the Acura became trapped in the vehicle and was extricated by members of the Lake Country Fire Department. She was found to be in medical distress and was transported to hospital by BC Ambulance, where she later died from injuries sustained in the collision.A BC Highway Patrol collision analyst and the BC Coroners Service attended the scene as part of the investigation. The southbound lanes of Highway 97 were closed for several hours. However, traffic continued to flow using the northbound lanes. Both drivers are co-operating with investigators. Alcohol is not believed to have been a contributing factor in the collision. Investigators are continuing to examine other potential contributing factors and the investigation remains ongoing.
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