Toronto, Sep 9 (IANS): An Indian-origin police officer has been promoted to the rank of superintendent of Community Services, Surrey Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has announced.

Inspector Sharnjit (Shawn) Gill, the second Indian-descent RCMP Superintendent in British Columbia, is currently working as the Operations Officer for the Integrated Homicide Investigation Team (IHIT).

He will now oversee Surrey Detachment's community services that include community policing, youth, bikes, property crime, criminal intelligence, drugs, gang enforcement, and traffic, Voice online reported on wednesday.

"I feel privileged to be coming back to Surrey and look forward to working closely with the community to enhance public safety in our city," Gill was quoted as saying.

"I am fortunate to have this career in the RCMP and I acknowledge my parents for the significant role they have played. Had it not been for their courage and sacrifice in immigrating to Canada in 1969, I would not have been in the position that I am," Gill added.

Born in Rajiana village in Moga, Punjab, Gill began his career in Surrey General Duty 26 years ago.

He moved to Investigative Services later and worked in the Burglary and Serious Crime Units for next 15 years.

Gill has won many accolades while in services. In 1997, he was awarded officer in charge certificate of recognition for his role in the arrest and conviction of two serial sex offenders.

In 2009 he was conferred Long Service Medal for completing 20 years of service with good conduct.

In 2012, he won Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his role as the Team Commander in charge of the pipeline bombings investigation in Columbia.