MEDIA RELEASE - For Immediate Release
Crime Stoppers: Fighting Back Against Organized Crime in Northern BC
Prince George, BC – [October 1, 2025] – At a recent national Crime Stoppers conference experts shed light on the changing face of crime in Canada and beyond. Presentations at the conference revealed the growing sophistication of organized criminal networks. Key topics included:
· the rise of artificial intelligence in crime,
· the use of small rural runways to move illegal products,
· the pipeline of human trafficking across Canada, and
· the horrors of child exploitation.
“The face of crime is changing - crime today looks very different than it did 20 years ago,” said Gillian Millam, Executive Director of BC Crime Stoppers. “Criminal organizations are now better funded, better connected, and more dangerous. It’s no longer just outlaw motorcycle gangs—we’re dealing with cartels, triads, and even state-sponsored crime.” As an example, recently the Government of Canada declared the Bishnoi Gang, based in India, a terrorist organization. They are believed to be active in BC - engaging in shootings, arson, and extortion to instill fear.
Crime Stoppers began nearly 50 years ago empowering citizens to report crime anonymously. Today, there are 800 Crime Stoppers chapters worldwide, including 14 in British Columbia. Northern BC Crime Stoppers plays a vital role in one of the largest geographical regions in the province. Each year, the local chapter receives about 1,000 anonymous tips—leading to arrests, the recovery of stolen property, illegal drugs, and dangerous weapons. In 2024 alone, tips in Northern BC resulted in:
· $650,000 in stolen property and illegal drugs recovered,
· 28 weapons taken off the streets, and
· 6 arrests.
While not all tips result in arrests, every piece of information strengthens law enforcement’s understanding of criminal activity in the area.
Northern BC Crime Stoppers is currently undergoing a rebuilding phase to strengthen leadership, enhance fundraising, and ensure long-term sustainability - with a focus on rebuilding local leadership and creating a sustainable funding model. “We know this region matters,” said Millam. “Northern BC has a proud history of fighting crime through Crime Stoppers, and we’re working hard to ensure this chapter continues to serve the community for decades to come.”
Northern BC Crime Stoppers is actively seeking new board members, volunteers, and community partners to help strengthen its fight against organized crime. “We invite community leaders, businesses, and citizens to work with us,” said Millam. “Together, we can disrupt criminal networks, protect our communities, and give people a safe, anonymous way to share what they know.”
Representatives of BC Crime Stoppers and Northern BC Crime Stoppers will be making presentations to the Prince George City Council this Monday October 6th at 6pm and the Rotary Clubs on October 8th.
Media Contact:
Gillian Millam, Executive Director – British Columbia Crime Stoppers
Gillian@bccrimestoppers.com
