Three people have been killed in a shooting in Montreal, prompting UK police to review security protocols for officers deployed abroad. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday in a crowded commercial district, has sent shockwaves through the international policing community.
Canadian authorities confirmed that a lone gunman opened fire outside a cafe, killing two men and one woman before being subdued by local police. The motive remains unclear, but investigators are not ruling out terrorism. UK officials have swiftly responded, ordering a comprehensive review of safety measures for British officers stationed in Canada and other high-risk locations.
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper announced the review in a statement this morning. “The safety of our personnel overseas is paramount. We will work closely with Canadian partners to understand what happened and ensure our officers are protected.” The review will cover risk assessments, armament protocols, and emergency response training for UK police on secondment or training missions abroad.
Jeremy Corbyn, shadow home secretary, criticised the government for not acting sooner. “I’ve raised concerns about officer safety for years. A review is welcome, but it’s a day late and a dollar short for the families of those affected.”
Unions have also weighed in. Steve Hart, chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales, said: “Our members face increasing danger overseas. We need concrete action, not just reports gathering dust.”
The shooting has reignited debate about gun control. Canada recently tightened firearm laws after a series of mass shootings, but critics argue enforcement has been lax. Meanwhile, UK police have not suffered a major incident abroad since the 2019 London Bridge attack, which led to enhanced security at embassies.
Margaret Dickinson, a security analyst, said: “The Montreal attack shows no country is immune. UK police need to adapt to a world where soft targets are everywhere. This review must lead to real change.”
The victims have not been named pending family notification. Canadian police are appealing for witnesses and footage of the incident.
For British officers stationed in Canada – often for liaison work or joint operations – the fear is palpable. “We always thought it was safe here,” one officer told the Guardian. “Now we’re looking over our shoulders.”
As the review begins, the wider public remains on edge. The cost of living crisis at home may feel a world away, but for families of UK police, this tragedy brings danger uncomfortably close. The government promises an initial report within three months.
