The CEO of a non-profit was bear-sprayed outside his Surrey office last week in what he believes was a targeted attack.
The Surrey Police Service says Satbir Singh Cheema, president and CEO of the Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society (PICS), called 911 before 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 11.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!A video of the incident shows two suspects in a white Dodge pickup truck approach Cheema in a parking lot along 80 Avenue near 128 Street.
Cheema tells OMNI News he spoke with the occupants of the vehicle briefly before a masked man jumped from the back seat, moving “aggressively” towards him. He adds that he also saw the driver shooting a video.
“That’s when I knew that something was definitely going to happen,” said Cheema.
He says he was sprayed as he tried to run behind his own vehicle.
“Luckily, by that time, I was aware, and I ducked and turned, and so it didn’t fall on me, on my face.”
Some of the spray did land on his shirt, turban, and arm, before the assailants drove away. Cheema says he was able to quickly return to his workplace, wash the spray off, call the police, and check surveillance footage.
He believes the attack was “premeditated” and targeted.
“It had to be the handiwork of some people who had an issue with our organization.”
According to its website, PICS offers employment programs, settlement services, language services, social programs and housing services to new immigrants, seniors, farm workers, women and youth.
Cheema says he’s grateful for community support and has “full confidence” that police will continue pursuing the investigation.
The SPS confirms its investigation is ongoing.
—With files from OMNI News