Tensions in the Middle East could reverberate in Hamilton, police say

In light of the evolving situation in the Middle East and the global security concerns it raises, Hamilton Police say they’re closely monitoring any local impacts that may arise.

“We have increased our presence around religious sites in our ongoing engagement with faith communities to offer comfort, support and security,” Hamilton Police said in a statement.

“Hamilton Police Service’s unwavering commitment to public safety ensures that we will not stand for hate crimes or threats against any individual or group.”

“Rest assured, any violent actions will be addressed,” they added.

Earlier today, Toronto Police arrested three men who entered the Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto and allegedly made threats to the school.

THREAT:
Community Hebrew Academy of Toronto (CHAT)
12:32pm
-report about 3 males at the school directed to leave by security
-susp then made threats to the school and left property
-officers searched the area and arrested all 3 suspects
-Hate Crimes investigating#GO2373418
^se

— Toronto Police Operations (@TPSOperations) October 12, 2023

According to the National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), complaints of Islamophobic incidents in Canada have doubled in the past few days due to the ongoing Israel-Palestine crises.

1/3. Complaints to NCCM of #Islamophobic incidents in #Canada have doubled in the past few days, as the current situation in Palestine began to unfold. pic.twitter.com/SHDGt6zYCo

— NCCM (@nccm) October 12, 2023

Hamilton Police say they’re actively collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to bolster security measures and maintain a safe environment for everyone.