RCMP confirms probe into Chong threats as ex-adviser to PM offers new details on memo

Acting RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme confirmed Tuesday that police have opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Conservative MP Michael Chong was targeted by Beijing. He said the RCMP is also working with elections officials to probe alleged foreign interference against two other members of Parliament: Conservative MP Erin O'Toole and NDP MP Jenny Kwan.

Acting RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme confirmed Tuesday that police have opened a criminal investigation into allegations that Conservative MP Michael Chong was targeted by Beijing.

He said the RCMP is also working with elections officials to probe alleged foreign interference against two other members of Parliament -- Conservative MP Erin O'Toole and NDP MP Jenny Kwan -- but wouldn't confirm whether police are pursuing criminal charges in either case.

"Any matters that can be charged, any person that can be charged with the Criminal Code, we will do so," he said.

The interim commissioner made the comments on Parliament Hill this morning, where he testified in front of a parliamentary committee that is studying the issue.

Duheme said more than 100 investigations into foreign interference writ large are underway in Canada, adding that police stations allegedly operated by Beijing have been closed amid ongoing investigations.

"We are trying to build the relationship with the communities to have the people come forward and tell us their story, so we can have more evidence to lay appropriate charges " he said.

He said the national police agency first learned about allegations against MPs in the media, and he had not seen a Canadian Security Intelligence Service memo warning about Beijing's alleged targeting of parliamentarians.