Surrey Mayor Calls for Action Against Violent Content on Social Media

In the wake of a recent shooting incident in British Columbia, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke has issued a strong call to social media companies, urging them to take decisive action against violent content. The incident involved a shooting at a local business, where the perpetrator not only committed the act but also recorded and uploaded the footage online, claiming responsibility. This alarming event has prompted Mayor Locke to demand that platforms like Meta, X, and TikTok implement stricter measures to prevent the spread of such harmful content.

The Urgent Need for Real-Time Detection Tools

Mayor Locke emphasizes the critical need for social media platforms to develop and deploy real-time detection tools. These tools would be instrumental in identifying and removing violent content as soon as it appears online. By doing so, platforms can help protect communities from the potential harm that such content can cause. The mayor’s appeal highlights the growing concern over the role of social media in amplifying violent acts and glorifying criminal behavior.

Banning Criminal Accounts: A Necessary Step

Another key aspect of Mayor Locke’s statement is the call for banning accounts associated with criminal activities. By removing these accounts, social media companies can prevent perpetrators from using their platforms as a stage for promoting violence. This measure is seen as essential in curbing the influence of individuals who seek to exploit social media to spread fear and chaos.

Community Safety at Stake

The safety of the community is at the forefront of Mayor Locke’s concerns. She believes that by taking swift and effective action, social media platforms can play a significant role in safeguarding citizens from exposure to violent content. The mayor’s statement serves as a reminder of the responsibility that these companies have in ensuring their platforms are not used to endanger public safety.