9 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Questions have been raised over the Vancouver Police Department’s (VPD) decision to investigate one of its own officers after veteran constable Kalwinder “Kal” Dosanjh was charged in an alleged multimillion-dollar fraud case.
Dosanjh, a 26-year veteran of the VPD and founder of the KidsPlay Foundation, faces nine criminal charges, including fraud, theft and breach of trust. He has denied any wrongdoing and says he will defend himself in court.
19 Investors Allegedly Lost More Than $3 Million
According to police, 19 investors reported losses exceeding $3 million in connection with the allegations.
The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2017 and 2025 in Vancouver, Surrey and other parts of British Columbia. The VPD said it received information alleging criminal activity involving Dosanjh in December 2023, after which a dedicated investigative team was established.
Nine Charges Filed Against Dosanjh
Dosanjh faces:
- Four counts of fraud over C$5,000
- Four counts of theft over C$5,000
- One count of breach of trust
His co-accused, Sarabjit Singh Gill, faces six fraud and theft-related charges. The charges have been approved by Crown counsel.
Lawyer Questions VPD’s Independence
Dosanjh’s lawyer, Joven Narwal, KC, has questioned why the VPD investigated a long-serving member of its own department rather than referring the matter to an outside police agency.
Narwal said the arrangement raises concerns about investigative independence, objectivity and safeguards, particularly because the case involves allegations concerning public trust.
Dosanjh Denies Any Wrongdoing
Dosanjh has categorically denied the allegations and said he intends to fully defend himself through the Canadian judicial system.
In a statement released through his lawyer, he described the situation as difficult for his family and asked the media and public to respect the legal process and the presumption of innocence.
Officer Suspended From VPD
Following the charges, Dosanjh was suspended from the Vancouver Police Department.
VPD Chief Steve Rai said the department had taken the measure after what police described as a lengthy investigation. Rai also recommended that Dosanjh be suspended without pay while the criminal and any related disciplinary proceedings continue.
Investigation Continued for More Than Two Years
The VPD said the investigation began after information was received in December 2023.
Police have said the investigation involved a dedicated team as well as victim and witness management measures. The department also notified the Office of the Police Complaints Commissioner at the outset of the investigation, according to the chief’s statement.
From Financial Crimes Detective to Accused Officer
Dosanjh had previously worked as a senior detective in the VPD’s Financial Crimes Unit before serving most recently as a motorcycle traffic officer.
His arrest has attracted significant attention because of his long policing career and prominent community profile.
KidsPlay Foundation Founder
Dosanjh is also known for founding the KidsPlay Foundation, a youth-focused organisation that uses sports, mentorship and education to help steer young people away from gangs, drugs and violence.
His community work had made him a prominent figure among British Columbia’s South Asian community.
Case Now Moves Through Courts
With criminal charges now before the courts, the allegations against Dosanjh remain unproven.
His defence is expected to challenge the allegations and, as his lawyer has indicated, examine both the evidence and the circumstances surrounding the VPD investigation.