'Operation Order' leads to downtown sweep by Calgary Police Service

"Operation Order" Leads to Downtown Sweep by Calgary Police

On November 5, Calgary Police Service officers gathered in large numbers downtown for "Operation Order," an initiative aimed at reducing crime and social disorder. Officers from all city districts were briefed and deployed to patrol key areas including the East Village, Stephen Avenue, and Century Gardens.

The operation responded to ongoing public concern over safety in the downtown core. Many Calgarians have expressed that they do not feel secure in these areas.

Calgary Police Chief’s Statement

“This is not just about statistics. It’s also about how people feel when they walk through our streets, ride transit or visit public spaces, everyone deserves to feel safe in their city, and this operation will save lives.” – Chief Katie McLellan

Chief McLellan emphasized that this was not a one-time effort to make arrests or deter disorder. Instead, it marks the start of a sustained commitment to improve safety.

“Today just isn’t a one day blitz. We will continue to do this going forward after today, we will debrief, and we will assess, and we will reassess. This just isn’t one and done.”

Context of the Operation

The initiative addresses a six-year high in violence affecting unhoused individuals, security personnel, social workers, and law enforcement officers.
Deployment focused on areas where residents and visitors most often report safety concerns.

Current Status

The operation was ongoing as of 4:30 p.m. on November 5, with plans for continued patrols and assessments in the future.

Summary: Calgary Police launched "Operation Order" to enhance downtown safety through sustained patrols and community reassurance, promising ongoing efforts beyond a single-day action.

LiveWire Calgary — 2025-11-06