Worshippers at a Hindu temple in Abbotsford, B.C., are in disbelief after learning one of their priests has been charged with sex offences involving young girls.
Indian citizen Karam Vir was arrested Monday following an eight-month police investigation. He appeared in court Tuesday on two charges of sexual exploitation and one count of sexual assault.
Several members of his congregation spoke to CTV News Tuesday night, most expressing incredulity at the charges.
"Our family's been close with the priest," said one woman who asked not to be named. "What I personally believe, I don't think he had anything to do with it."
"People are accusing him of stuff … there's no possible chance of that happening."
Most at the temple have only known Vir for about a year. Police say he is in Canada on a working visa and that he spent time in Ontario before coming to Abbotsford.
In March, a girl who attends the temple approached police with allegations of sexual misconduct. A second alleged victim later came forward. Both girls are younger than 18 years old.
Const. Ian MacDonald said the investigation is ongoing, and police are asking any other alleged victims to come forward.
"We are obviously hopeful that we won't find other victims, but you can't prelude the possibility that there could be," he said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Abbotsford Police Department at 604-859-5225.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Brent Shearer
