Surrey, B.C., man arrested during probe into public incitement of hatred

SURREY, B.C. – Mounties in Surrey, B.C., say a man has been arrested as they investigate an allegation that a hateful message was posted on social media.

A news release from police says the probe began April 21 following a complaint about an online message referencing the Surrey Vaisakhi parade.

A 46-year-old Surrey man was taken into custody Wednesday, accused of public incitement of hatred.

Cpl. Elenore Sturko says the man remains in custody and anyone with information about the allegations should contact the Surrey detachment.

Police also say the incident offers an opportunity to encourage everyone to become familiar with Canada’s laws prohibiting hate propaganda in the Criminal Code.

The laws call for a maximum two years imprisonment for anyone convicted of making public statements that incite or promote hatred against any identifiable group.