British Columbia

Police say Yaletown murder site was 'de-facto brothel'

Vancouver Police have charged two suspects with the fatal stabbing of Jeffrey Qi Feng Bian in his upscale Yaletown condo earlier this month.

Investigators found 28-year-old Bian suffering from severe stab wounds inside an 18th floor suite at 1067 Marinaside Cresent on June 11. He later died in hospital.

At a press conference Monday, Vancouver police Supt. Rob Rothwell told reporters that Bian may have been operating an illegal business from the apartment.

"We have reason to believe the suite was used as a massage parlour or de facto brothel," Rothwell said.

On June 19, police arrested two 20-year-old suspects: Justin Lam and Derick Chin Wai Wong. Both are Vancouver residents.

Investigators said that Bian's death was likely a result of a robbery attempt. Lam is charged with first degree murder, unlawful confinement, robbery and use of an imitation firearm. Wong also faces four counts, including manslaughter and robbery.

"We believe this type of crime is under-reported," he said. "If you are operating an illegal business and something like this occurs, you will likely be reluctant to report it to police."

Rothwell asked any residents who witness suspicious activity in their neighbourhood to report it.