Saanich arrest triggers IIO investigation into use of force

The Independent Investigations Office of British Columbia (IIO) has launched an investigation into an arrest in Saanich that occurred on September 18, 2026. The incident involved the Saanich Police Department and members of the Greater Victoria Emergency Response Team responding to a report of a possible assault at a residence on Woodhall Drive.

Following several hours of negotiations, a man exited the residence and was taken into custody. During the arrest, police deployed a police service dog and less-lethal use of force weapons. The individual was subsequently transported to a hospital for medical assessment and treatment of his injuries.

The IIO is currently determining if the man’s injuries meet the threshold of ‘serious harm’ as defined by the Police Act and whether there is a connection between the injuries and the actions or inaction of the officers involved. The agency is appealing to the public for any witnesses who may have information regarding the incident.

In a separate incident in Abbotsford, police seized two airsoft guns after a man was reported carrying what appeared to be a handgun in public. The individual was issued a violation ticket for open liquor.