Montreal police have disbanded a 16-officer patrol unit at Montréal-Nord Station 39 and suspended three officers amid accusations of racial profiling and discrimination targeting Black and Arab community members, Chief Fady Dagher announced Aug. 11.

The police service launched a response plan that includes immediate disciplinary actions, long-term oversight mechanisms, transparent communication strategies and deeper community partnerships aimed at addressing systemic racism and restoring public trust, according to the chief.

"We are committed to taking serious, transparent steps to address the issues raised by the community and members of our force," Dagher said in a press briefing reported by CBC News.

The investigation began after officers reported racist and hateful behaviour within the patrol unit during police stops in Montréal-Nord, a neighbourhood with a substantial Black and Arab population. Community members have voiced concerns about systemic racism in policing for 17 years, citing repeated racial profiling and unequal treatment, according to the Red Coalition and local activists.

Racialized residents in Montréal-Nord are four to five times more likely than others to be stopped by Montreal police, according to reports from 2019 and 2023, CP24 reported.

These revelations come after a 2024 Quebec Superior Court ruling that found racial profiling to be systemic within Montreal police services. The city has appealed the decision.

Racial discrimination in Quebec policing has been documented over decades. Notable inquiries include the 1987 Bellemare Commission and investigations following the 2008 fatal police shooting of Fredy Villanueva in Montréal-Nord. Recent data cited by CP24 and testimony from community groups such as the Red Coalition point to continuing mistrust between police and residents.

Community groups such as the Red Coalition say the response must go beyond investigations. "We need systemic change and accountability mechanisms that include the voices of those most impacted," said a spokesperson for the group, who declined to be identified, citing ongoing concerns about reprisal (Global News).

The police service's plan outlines commitments to improving oversight, including external civilian review and renewed training focused on anti-racism and cultural competency. It also announces transparent reporting practices to keep the public informed as investigations proceed.

The Montreal police service said the investigation and disciplinary actions are ongoing and that cooperation with independent bodies is central to their approach.

The case is part of ongoing debate in Quebec over policing and race, following the 2024 Superior Court ruling and the city's appeal.