Ottawa, April 1 -- Canada plans to invest up to C$157.5 million over the next three years to support community-based efforts aimed at preventing gun and gang violence, Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said on Thursday.

Officials said the programme focuses on prevention by funding local initiatives that provide mentorship, skills training and support services for children and young adults vulnerable to gang involvement.

The planned investment builds on a previous C$250 million commitment announced in 2022 and is part of a broader federal effort to combat gun crime, including border enforcement measures and a ban on assault-style firearms.

The funding will be working to address the root causes of violence, particularly among at...