“These steps are neither optional nor aspirational,” Locke asserted. “They are essential.”
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has issued a passionate and urgent plea to global social media giants—Meta, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and others—to take immediate action in banning content linked to violent criminal activity following a shocking shooting at Kap’s Café.
The incident, which has rocked the community, was not only carried out in broad daylight but was also brazenly recorded and posted online by an individual allegedly claiming responsibility. The video, which spread rapidly across platforms, has raised serious concerns about how criminals are exploiting digital spaces to promote violence and instill fear.
“A place that should have been filled with buzz and excitement was instead overtaken by fear and unease,” Mayor Locke said in an official statement. “Our residents deserve to feel safe—not only in their neighborhoods, but also online.”
In her remarks, the mayor highlighted the troubling paradox that while legitimate journalism is often restricted or blocked on some platforms, violent videos remain accessible, even celebrated.
Locke outlined three critical demands to social media companies:
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Permanently ban accounts linked to criminal organizations.
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Immediately remove content that glorifies, promotes, or supports violent crime.
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Implement real-time tools to detect and remove dangerous material before it goes viral.
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“These steps are neither optional nor aspirational,” Locke asserted. “They are essential.”
The mayor emphasized the importance of shared responsibility between government, law enforcement, communities, and digital platforms. She confirmed that the City of Surrey is working in close partnership with Surrey Police Service, RCMP, and federal agencies to prevent future violence—but stressed that online platforms must now “step up” and do their part.
“Criminal organizations must not be given digital megaphones to recruit, intimidate, or celebrate violence,” Locke added. “Surrey’s strength lies in our unity and our refusal to be intimidated.”
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Locke’s strong stance has been widely echoed by community leaders, local businesses, and public safety advocates who say the digital enablers of such acts must be held accountable. The aftermath of the Kap’s Café shooting has sparked a broader debate about how technology can be better leveraged to protect communities—not endanger them.
The mayor concluded by reaffirming her administration’s commitment to keeping Surrey “safe, resilient, and unafraid,” and called on tech firms to become true partners in public safety.
