Surrey RCMP raid wedding that went against COVID-19 health orders

Matrimonial bliss was put on pause at a Surrey wedding last week after police showed up to deliver a hefty fine to the marriage party for violating B.C.'s COVID-19 health restrictions.

Surrey RCMP said its COVID-19 enforcement squad handed out 18 tickets last week totalling nearly $17,000 to people caught defying public health orders. Most of the fines stemmed from large gatherings taking place contrary to restrictions, that prohibit social gatherings of any size outside of one's household.

Between April 7 and 11, Surrey Mounties dealt with five different gatherings, including a wedding with more than 22 people at a home in Newton. One person at the wedding was handed a $2,300 ticket for hosting the non-compliant event.

“Our officers have recently seen the number of people and businesses ignoring public health orders creeping up,” said Sgt. Tyler Wickware of the Surrey RCMP's COVID-19 compliance and enforcement team. “Especially with sunny weather now here, it can be very inviting to gather with others, so we are reminding everyone that public health orders are still in effect limiting gatherings, even outdoors.”

Meanwhile, the owner of a restaurant in the 9400-block of 120th Street was also fined for flouting recent restrictions that prohibit indoor dining.

“This was the second violation for this establishment … Fraser Health authorities were also notified,” Surrey RCMP said in a news release.

Police did not release the name of the restaurant.