Kamloops RCMP are warning people in the community about an increased risk to public safety after the recent uptick in violence linked to an organized crime conflict.

The warning, issued Wednesday, comes after at least four shootings since last Thursday as well as arson and other targeted criminal acts that Mounties believe are connected to the ongoing conflict.

Mounties are also asking people to avoid two men – 40-year-old Cameron Ronald Cole and 25-year-old Justin Christopher Hunt – as they believe them to be the targets of future violence.

“The two men who appear to be at the centre of the conflict have been warned about the risk to themselves, but recent events also lead us to be fearful for the safety of the public at large who may live or be near the men or their associates who are being targeted as a result of their criminal activities,” Kamloops RCMP Supt. Jeff Pelley said, in a statement.

“Without going into detail due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, some of these incidents occurred in public venues and have included a misidentified target.”

Kamloops RCMP say they expect the violence to continue as the two men – who have lengthy criminal records – maintain a presence in the community.

“The Kamloops RCMP Detachment’s Targeted Enforcement Unit, in partnership with other detachment and provincial resources, have increased recent efforts to help deter and suppress ongoing organized crime activities,” Pelley added.

“We are grateful for the continued assistance and expertise of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit – BC in investigating individuals who are engaging in violence and drug trafficking in our community.”

Police are asking people to call 911 if they have any information about recent incidents of violence or suspicious activity in Kamloops.

“[I am] Working with the RCMP and ensuring that the proper resources are up in Kamloops,” B.C.’s Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth told Radio NL when asked about the uptick in violence.

“I know the RCMP is very much on top of that and doing that, in fact, as we speak.”