Mounties have connected a series of apparently unconnected arsons and shootings to a plot targeting people connected to the Justice Institute of B.C.
Police say 10 people have been targeted by threats and other criminal activity between April and August. Three are employees at the New Westminster school, two are past students, and the rest are "loosely linked" to the institute.
"Disturbingly, it seems innocent people have been subject to arsons of their homes and vehicles, and some have had their residences or vehicles shot at," RCMP Chief Supt. Janice Armstrong said in a release.
"These victims do not appear to be affiliated with any criminal activity. Fortunately, no one has been physically injured in these incidents."
Police are releasing few details about the investigation, but say the crimes have been scattered throughout Metro Vancouver and none were committed on campus.
Investigators say they have no reason to believe anyone else is at risk, but police have alerted students and staff members as the new school year begins.
A team comprising RCMP officers and investigators from municipal police departments has been assembled to look into the incidents.
The school -- which trains aspiring police officers and other public safety professionals -- says it is increasing security on campus in response to the investigation.
"JIBC is very concerned about this situation, and the impact it has had on innocent victims," school president Jack McGee said in a release.
"We are doing everything we can to support the police investigation, and taking all possible steps to protect the safety and security of students, staff, faculty and the public who access our campuses."
