Brampton is set to become the focal point of a nationwide discussion on public safety, with plans underway to host a National Public Safety Summit aimed at addressing critical issues such as organized crime and rising auto theft.
Brampton City Council passed a motion on Wednesday—supported by Peel Regional Police—calling for the summit, which would bring together municipal leaders, police services, and public safety experts from across Canada to share strategies and solutions.
The summit is being led by Brampton Councillor Rowena Santos, who emphasized the urgency of the event in light of escalating threats facing communities across the country. “This is no longer a regional issue—it’s a national crisis,” said Santos. “From auto thefts and human trafficking to fentanyl smuggling and gun violence, we need a united and coordinated response.”
Santos said the idea was sparked by overwhelming public concern, highlighted through her recent “Enhancing Public Safety Survey,” in which residents identified community safety as their top priority. She added that Peel Police and Brampton officials are on the frontlines but need broader support.
The idea gained momentum following last month’s Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) trade show, where Peel Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah presented on public safety. His presentation reportedly drew a large crowd of interested councillors and mayors, indicating strong national interest in collaboration.
Duraiappah expressed Peel Police’s readiness to lead this national initiative. “Public safety is a national concern that requires a national solution,” he said. “We’re dealing with cross-border crime, organized criminal networks, and increasingly complex threats. A forum like this is long overdue.”
The summit would also continue Brampton’s advocacy on issues like bail reform and repeat offenders, while building on the success of a previous Peel Police summit focused on auto theft, held after record-breaking theft numbers in Brampton and Mississauga.
The City of Brampton will now formally request the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to partner on organizing the event, which could take place as early as next spring.
Councillor Santos, who was recently re-elected to her sixth term on the FCM board of directors, said hosting the summit ensures Brampton remains a key voice in shaping federal policy and funding for municipalities across the country.