Commonwealth_ Toronto police are enhancing security measures as they prepare for the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, anticipating increased protest activity and possible violence. This escalation comes amid a broader trend of heightened global tensions, which, according to Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw, are resonating within the city. At an October 2 press conference, Demkiw emphasized that international events have a local impact, stating that residents will notice a greater police presence across Toronto in the upcoming weeks.
Since the attack last October, pro-Palestinian protests have been common across Canada, some of which have involved violence. Incidents have included the use of incendiary devices against Jewish community centers and synagogues, bomb threats targeting schools, and death threats directed at law enforcement. Protesters have also disrupted business activities and blocked traffic, leading to significant road closures, including highway overpasses. Demkiw reported that Toronto Police have responded to over 1,500 demonstrations and have conducted thousands of security visits to schools, religious sites, and community centers. Over the past year, police have made 72 protest-related arrests.
The police chief also addressed the worrying rise in hate crimes, particularly those targeting the Jewish community, which have increased by 69 percent compared to the previous year. Across all communities, hate crimes have risen by 40 percent, with a total of 350 incidents reported year-to-date. In response to this trend, police are deploying increased resources throughout Toronto, including both plainclothes and uniformed officers, specialized units, mounted units, and police liaison teams. Mobile command posts will also be stationed in several Jewish neighborhoods to enhance community safety.
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“We know emotions are intense, and as demonstrations continue, we must balance the right to assembly with the need to maintain public order and safety,” Demkiw stated. He expressed concern over the increasingly confrontational nature of recent protests, which have involved physical assaults on officers and the use of weapons.
Toronto police have also focused on enforcing laws related to displaying symbols of groups designated as terrorist entities by Public Safety Canada. Demkiw highlighted the consequences of promoting such groups, reminding the public that legal actions can be taken at any time, even after an incident has concluded. On October 3, Toronto Police announced the arrest of two men, Ahmad Sheikhani and Hamad Khalid Menshed, both aged 34, from Oakville and Mississauga, respectively. They were arrested for carrying Hezbollah flags during a September 28 protest near Armoury Street and University Avenue. Hezbollah is designated as a terrorist organization in Canada, and both men were charged with public incitement of hatred.
During the protest, officers first approached the men to warn them about the implications of displaying Hezbollah flags and the potential risks to public peace. However, due to the size of the crowd and safety concerns, the officers decided to disengage, allowing the men to continue their actions at that moment. As tensions continue to rise, the police are focused on balancing the rights to freedom of expression and assembly with the necessity to maintain public order. Demkiw emphasized that “hate has no place in Toronto,” underscoring the city’s commitment to safeguarding its diverse communities. Authorities are preparing for potential challenges in the days ahead, striving to ensure safety for all residents while dealing with the complexities that arise from such politically charged demonstrations.
