SOMBRE MOOD AMONG MOUNTIES

Police officers at the Langley RCMP detachment are in a 'sombre' mood as
they try to come to grips with the worst police killings in 120 years.

"The RCMP is like one great big family. When a member is killed, there is a
ripple effect," said Langley RCMP Insp. Russ Nash on Friday. "Our thoughts
and prayers are with the officers' families."

On Thursday, four police officers investigating a suspected marijuana grow
operation at a farm near Mayerthorpe, Alberta were gunned down by the
property owner. He died at the scene.

"This is a reminder of the danger members face everyday. Despite that, they
are committed to the safety of the public and that makes me proud of the
job members do," said Nash.

Of the tragedy, Nash said it's difficult for anyone to wrap their minds
around what took place.

"We all try to rationalize it, but there is no rationalization for this,"
he said.

Langley MP Mark Warawa expressed his condolences and said the death of
these Mounties is a reminder of the importance of putting a stop to grow-ops.

"The time has come to take a stand against grow-ops and every citizen has a
responsibility to make it so," said Warawa on Friday.

This week Warawa publicly criticized B.C. Hydro for turning a blind eye to
grow-ops while taking in large profits from the growers. He said Hydro's
complicity was essentially aiding the success of grow-ops.

On Thursday, Solicitor General Rich Coleman announced that the province is
teaming up with police and firefighters in Surrey on a new pilot project to
reduce house fires and other public safety hazards caused by grow ops. If a
grow-op is suspected, RCMP, the fire department and an electrical inspector
will knock on the door.

If there's no answer, a 72-hour notice will be placed on the door demanding
an inspection, and if one isn't allowed, power to the home will be cut off.
The 90-day trial is the first system like it in Canada and it will be
tested exclusively in Surrey.

"This is exactly the type of co-operation I was calling for earlier this
week and it shows that B.C. Hydro does have some discretion to act," said
Warawa. "I am very glad the producers of electricity will be part of the
solution."

- - With files from Surrey Leader