G7 Summit Security Seeks Public's Help in Keeping Eye Out for "Suspicious Activity"
Cathy Ellis
Rocky Mountain Outlook
KANANASKIS – Security personnel for the upcoming G7 Summit of world leaders in Kananaskis Country are asking the public to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity before and during the June 15-17 event.
With tight security in place to protect world leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, officials say someone asking prying questions about work schedules, building plans, or safety rules could be a security risk for the G7 Summit.
The RCMP-led Integrated Safety and Security Group (ISSG) outlined a series of potential indicators of suspicious activity, including anyone buying military-type equipment such as gas masks, or materials that could contain irritant chemical agents like smoke bombs.
Officials with ISSG, which is overseeing security for the large-scale international event, say the presence of these and other indicators does not necessarily signal criminal activity, however, the "probability increases with the number of indicators detected."
They say all signs must be examined in context, but if in doubt, contact the Combined Intelligence Group by calling 1-833-341-4464 or emailing: g7_intelligence-renseignements@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
“We always look to those in the community to tell us what is out of place or not normal for your neighbourhood," said Fraser Logan, the ISSG's community and media lead for the G7.
"If you see someone or something that is out of place, please let us know. If it’s a concern for you, it’s a concern to the ISSG."
Other things people are asked to be on the lookout for include suspicious training or weapons handling activities (virtual or real); Implicit or explicit threats, for example, on social media or blogs; participation in radical activities or demonstrations and the use of extremist language; overconsumption of hate and violent propaganda images and videos on the internet; and possession of propaganda material promoting violence (pamphlets, books, videos, DVDs, music, websites, etc.).
Other activities ISSG is looking for include those asking personnel questions in relation to infrastructure and schedules; online research in order to perpetrate an attack; reconnaissance of a possible target; unusual reconnaissance or surveillance or taking photos for reconnaissance purposes; suspicious overflight of drone, airplane or helicopter.
The list also includes breaking and entering, intrusion, attempted intrusion, or security testing (physical or electronic); suspicious theft, loss, misplacement or possession of uniforms, keys, ID, etc.
As the G7 is considered a major international event, the RCMP holds the mandate for the overarching safety and security of all world leaders in attendance.
The RCMP is leading the ISSG, which includes Calgary Police Service, the Alberta Sheriffs’ Branch, Alberta Conservation Officers and the Canadian Armed Forces.