Absolutely yes they needed but if you don't have any immediate family member in back home then I believe an explanation letter will work for CIC... Also, in addition to this you should be able to apply online from Canada or by mailing the documents - please see below link, and choose the country from drop down list
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigratio...n/medical-police/police-certificates/how.html
Applying online sometimes takes a while to get the certificate and in regards of lateness you can provide the initial confirmation or some sort email confirmation that you have applied this and you will be getting this sooner or later.
Hope this helps.