SURRY, British Columbia –
Charges have been laid in the murder of Ripudaman Singh Malik, who was shot outside his business in Surrey, British Columbia, on July 14.
Malik, who was acquitted in 2005 in connection with the Air India bombings that killed 331 people, was 75.
On Tuesday, RCMP arrested Tanner Fox, 21, and Jose Lopez, 23, without incident in Abbotsford and New Westminster, respectively.
“Through conventional investigative techniques and incredible police work, we were able to identify and arrest two suspects in connection with this murder,” said Supt. Mandeep Mooker of the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team.
He said both suspects were known to police.
Court records show Fox has prior convictions that include assault causing bodily harm and aggravated assault.
Lopez has convictions for assault with a weapon and assault causing bodily harm. He also faces a string of gun-related charges in Kelowna. He goes to court in the Kelowna matters next December and was released on bail.
“No matter where the investigation goes and no matter how these charges play out, we have lost a great man,” said Jaspreet Malik, Ripudaman Singh Malik’s son.
“After our father’s murder… our family is in a state of shock. We appreciate the outpouring of support we’ve received from the community,” he said, adding that news of the arrests had mixed emotions.
“We are happy that the IHIT team is moving forward and we support them in the work they are doing,” he said, but added that the family was upset that two young people had chosen the wrong path in life.
Asked if more arrests could be made, Mucker said the investigation was ongoing.
“Obviously we’re in the early stages of this investigation as it’s only 13 days old, so there’s a lot of follow-up work to be done,” he said.
Police said they are still working to determine a motive for the killing, but the family admits it is a question that may never be answered.
“It can always be an incomplete story,” Malik’s son said. “We may never know, but again, I believe the police will do their job.”
Mucker said the investigation was “complex with its unique challenges” and that the charges came because of “the dedication and expertise that each investigator brings as part of the integration and partnership.”
Meanwhile, Surrey RCMP Officer in Charge Brian Edwards took a moment to thank the community.
“I want to thank the people of Surrey and thank you for your trust, patience and cooperation in resolving this matter,” he said.
The accused’s bail hearing is scheduled for August 10.
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