5 more charged in North York anti-Israel protest
· Toronto Sun
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Toronto Police have charged five individuals in connection with a demonstration in a mainly Jewish neighbourhood earlier this year.
“We will continue to be relentless in following the evidence to hold those who commit criminal acts made accountable, no matter how long it takes,” Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw said during a news conference on Monday afternoon at police headquarters. “Today is an example of what we mean when we say that charges can come at any time after an incident.”
Police alleged that the accused attended the demonstration on March 15 with other pro-Palestinian protesters. The accused allegedly either displayed and/or distributed antisemitic signs, and “some of the individuals were disguised during these alleged offences,” police said.
The arrests were carried out on Sunday following the execution of several search warrants in Toronto and Durham Region.
‘Hate has a real impact’
Images from the March 15 protest at the intersection of Bathurst St. and Sheppard Ave. W. depicted Jews in a less-than-flattering light.
“Hate has real impact, antisemitic behaviour like this creates fear, anxiety and division in our own communities,’ Demkiw said. “Through the tireless work of the Counter-Terrorism Security Unit, we investigate thoroughly, gather evidence carefully, and pursue charges when there are reasonable grounds and legal authority to do so.”
All five of the accused were charged with wilful promotion of hatred.
Demkiw said wilful promotion of hatred is a “very serious charge” and a “rare charge” as it requires the consent of the Attorney General of Ontario. The charge has been laid on 11 occasions since the commencement of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023 and only four times in the decade prior.
Arrests made after search warrant
Hosaam Hemdan, 19, of Toronto, Omer Turcan, 43, of Toronto, and Syed Hussaini, 43, of Whitby, were each charged with wilful promotion of hatred, wearing a disguise with intent, and public incitement of hatred.
Hasan Aydin, 48, and Yasaf Shaikh, both of Toronto, were eeach charged with wilful promotion of hatred and public incitement of hatred.
The latest charges are in addition to the arrest of 33-year-old Muhammad Anas Sial, of Toronto, who was charged with wilful promotion of hatred and public incitement of hatred in April and May, bringing to six the total number of those charged.