OPP commissioner defends beefed up border security program [Video]

Ontario’s top cop says a “surge” in border security outside of the province’s 14 ports of entry is needed, as political rhetoric about the issue swirls in the days leading up to U.S. president-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. 

In an interview with CBC Toronto, OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique defended a new provincial border security push announced last week.

He says the operation will see an “intelligence-led” approach to border enforcement and stressed that even before the announcement, the police service had bolstered its visible presence in border communities across the province, with 200 emergency response team officers working to stem the flow of illegal guns, drugs and human trafficking. 

“Being visible is a deterrent in itself,” Carrique said. “If we can have a greater visible presence and we can deter criminal activity, that is the best way to keep communities safe.”

WATCH | Ontario to beef up border security: The Ontario government has enhanced security measures along its border …