MONTREAL — Montreal police have suspended officers and dismantled an overnight patrol unit in Montreal North following allegations of repeated racist conduct, Police Chief Fady Dagher announced during a rare and urgent news conference on Saturday.
The chief revealed that the investigation began after the department became aware of the alleged incidents in March. While the probe remains ongoing, authorities say enough evidence has been gathered to warrant significant disciplinary action and recommendations for criminal charges.
According to Dagher, two officers have been suspended, three others reassigned to administrative duties, and 14 additional members of the team from Station 39 in Montreal North have been removed from frontline patrol duties and relocated.
“Although the investigation is still ongoing, enough information has been gathered to justify major administrative measures,” Dagher said, describing the situation as unacceptable.
Police confirmed that one case has already been submitted to prosecutors for review. Authorities are also recommending charges against two officers as investigators continue examining allegations involving racist behaviour and actions during police interventions.
The dismantled unit was responsible for overnight patrols in Montreal North, a diverse borough that has long faced concerns about police-community relations and allegations of racial profiling.
Dagher reiterated his commitment to addressing discrimination within the force, saying there is “no room for racism” in the Montreal Police Service. He also announced the creation of a dedicated phone line for residents and witnesses to provide information related to the investigation.
The developments prompted a response from Valérie Plante, who said she had been briefed by the police chief and had informed Quebec’s public security minister of the situation.
In a statement posted on social media, Plante said any form of racial profiling or violence is unacceptable and called for accelerated implementation of body-worn cameras across the Montreal police force.
“The chief of police has informed me of the situation in Montreal North. An investigation is underway and we will await the results,” the mayor said.
Authorities have not released specific details about the alleged incidents or the identities of the officers involved. The investigation remains active, and further disciplinary or criminal measures could follow as evidence is reviewed.
The case is expected to intensify discussions surrounding police accountability, racial profiling, and the use of body cameras within Montreal’s law enforcement agencies.
