Hate crimes unit consulted for probe of student’s assault in Kelowna

KELOWNA — RCMP in Kelowna, say it’s members are consulting with its hate crimes team to ensure that if there are any elements of hate that they are property identified in the attack on an international student in the city.

A statement from the Kelowna detachment says its general investigations team is leading the file and is seeking video from the area around a bus stop where the assault happened on March 17.

Police say a suspect group has been identified, but no arrests have been made.

The reason for the attack and the details linked to it are still being determined and the 21-year-old student is being supported by the Mounties’ victim services unit.

RCMP have released few details of the assault but said earlier that the victim was followed off the bus late Friday night and was hit from behind.

Const. Mike Della-Paolera said in the statement that the student was assaulted and was later treated for various injuries in hospital before being released.

“The mayor and all of city council were shocked and appalled to hear of the assault perpetrated against Mr. Gagandeep Singh on Friday, March 17. Our sympathies are with the young man as he recovers from his injuries and we wish him a full and speedy recovery,” said a media release from Kelowna City Hall.

“We are routinely being updated on this matter. We are grateful the Kelowna RCMP is thoroughly investigating this situation including engaging the B.C. Hate Crimes Team to ensure that hate elements, if any, are properly identified and investigated. The RCMP will keep the community informed of new developments as they arise.”

“Council has identified tackling crime as one of our highest priorities and violent crimes like this one will not be tolerated in our community,” the release said.