Muhammad 'Ash' Zafar (Image Credit: Contributed / Kamloops RCMP)

By James Peters

Muhammad 'Ash' Zafar

RCMP investigating Kamloops West End homicide appeal to those using men-seeking-men online services

Jan 7, 2026 | 3:12 PM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops RCMP are reaching out to users of men-seeking-men online services for help as they investigate this week’s apparent homicide in the city’s West End.

Mounties found Muhammad ‘Ash’ Zafar dead in his Dalgleish Drive apartment Monday (Jan. 5) after responding to a request to check on Zafar’s well-being.

In a renewed appeal for information issued Wednesday, Staff Sgt. Kevin McIntyre of the detachment’s Serious Crime Unit says investigators are still on scene and finding new information to help them solve the mystery.

“We are still asking anyone who had contact with Mr. Zafar between Saturday evening and late Sunday to reach out to investigators,” said McIntyre. “This includes individuals who use men-seeking-men dating sites or apps and may have communicated with him, or with someone using his images or profile information.”

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“We are also appealing to anyone who noticed unusual behaviour in someone they know, such as unexplained injuries, sudden changes in routine, cancelled plans, or conduct that seemed out of character, as well as residents or visitors who observed suspicious activity in the Dalgleish Drive or West End area during that timeframe,” continued McIntyre. “Seemingly small details often produce significant outcomes, if something stood out to you, even for a moment, we need you to come forward.”

The detachment is offering a series of tips for those who use online platforms to meet new people.

• Share your plans with a trusted friend or family member
• Arrange check ins before and after the meeting
• Meet in public places when possible
• Trust your instincts and leave if something feels unsafe

Anyone with information that could help investigators is asked to contact Kamloops RCMP at (250) 828-3000 and quote file number 2026-388. Those wishing to remain anonymous are asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 222-8477.

(Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds)