RCMP Dive Team Gets High-Tech Boost

TERRACE - British Columbia RCMP are getting a new tool to help them during underwater searches, Solicitor General Rich Coleman announced today.

"The portable sonar unit, which uses sound waves to provide real time pictures to operators on the surface, will assist RCMP divers in search operations and evidence recovery," said Coleman. "My ministry is providing the funding to purchase this new equipment so that RCMP can do their job safely and effectively."

Ground search and rescue, including inland waters, is the responsibility of the police. The sonar unit is fully portable and transportable to anywhere in the province where the 45-member RCMP dive team members are deployed. The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General has provided $45,000 to purchase the equipment and the RCMP will provide ongoing maintenance and operator training. 

Skeena MLA Roger Harris applauds the purchase of the new sonar unit. "Not only will police be able to respond to underwater searches with more accuracy in deep water and zero visibility," he said, "but the unit will provide additional safety for divers, allowing them to check for dangers in the area prior to a dive." 

  

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Contact:

Cindy Rose
Public Affairs Bureau
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356-6961