Former RCMP Inspector Denies Charges in High-Profile National Security Case
William Majcher, a retired RCMP inspector, entered a plea of not guilty on Monday as his trial commenced in British Columbia Supreme Court. The charges allege that Majcher violated Canadian security laws by preparing to assist a foreign government—specifically the People's Republic of China—in repatriating a former Chinese national and his substantial assets back to China.
Allegations of Coercion and Financial Crimes
The prosecution contends that Majcher targeted Hongwei (Kevin) Sun, a permanent resident of Canada living in British Columbia. Sun is wanted in China for financial crimes involving hundreds of millions of dollars and has been accused of making significant investments in Vancouver real estate. According to court documents, Majcher allegedly attempted to persuade Sun to return to China with his assets as part of China's global anti-corruption initiatives.
During the first day of the 15-day trial, the court heard testimony from key witnesses, including former RCMP deputy commissioner Peter German. German, who had a professional relationship with Majcher, described him as highly skilled in financial investigations and undercover operations. "He was strong in that area and that wasn't common in the RCMP, and he would stand out," German testified, noting Majcher's previous work in London before joining the force.
Controversial Testimony and Personal Motives
In cross-examination, the prosecution's first witness revealed that RCMP investigators in 2022 suggested Majcher moved to China due to what they termed "yellow fever." This derogatory phrase, typically referring to a white man's fetishization of Asian women, was mentioned by Corporal Chady Khoury during interviews with German as part of the investigation. Majcher's lawyer, Tanya Chamberlain, questioned German about this, though the term was not fully defined in court.
German testified that his last contact with Majcher was in January 2019 via a FaceTime call, which was casual and focused on personal updates. Both retired at the time, they discussed mutual interests like money laundering and financial crime, with Majcher bringing up the topic of asset recovery. German had previously assigned Majcher to lead B.C.'s market enforcement team, a unit created to combat financial market fraud.
Background and Legal Proceedings
Majcher, who reached the rank of inspector before retiring, worked as a private investigator based in Hong Kong and is married to an Asian woman. The trial, presided over by Justice Martha Devlin, is set to continue with further testimony and evidence over the coming days. This case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign interference and national security in Canada, particularly involving high-profile individuals and cross-border financial activities.
The proceedings underscore the complexities of international law enforcement cooperation and the challenges in prosecuting cases with geopolitical implications. As the trial progresses, more details are expected to emerge regarding the alleged plot and Majcher's involvement.
