Vancouver Residents Raise Concerns Over Policing Tactics Amid World Cup Preparations

Residents and advocates in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside neighborhood are expressing concerns about what they describe as a "supercharged policing campaign" occurring in proximity to BC Place, a venue for the 2026 World Cup. They assert that these policing tactics are causing displacement and endangering lives.

The concerns follow an incident observed on April 14, 2026, by Tyson Singh Kelsall, a harm reduction worker. While walking to work on Main Street, Singh Kelsall saw five individuals lying sedated on the sidewalk, which he believed was due to a contaminated drug supply, a common issue in Vancouver where opioids are increasingly mixed with sedatives like benzodiazepines.

Singh Kelsall reported that Vancouver police arrived before an ambulance. He observed officers moving each person toward a building wall. According to Singh Kelsall, none of the officers checked the individuals' breathing or inquired if they needed help before leaving the scene once the people were moved from the edge of the road.

Singh Kelsall, who provides training in overdose response, highlighted that individuals sedated by opioid-benzo mixtures should not be roughly moved. He emphasized the importance of careful positioning, airway checks, and remaining with the person until medical assistance arrives.

Advocates have linked these reported policing actions to the city's preparations for the World Cup, suggesting an increase in police presence and specific tactics in the area.