A MAN FACE a long list of charges after worshippers were sprayed with bear spray inside their mosque. Fast work by Peel Regional Police.
Security cameras and other safety precautions are being installed at a Mississauga mosque after a man was arrested for spraying bear spray at stunned worshippers.
A 24-year-old man is behind bars after being arrested by Peel Regional Police in what is believed to be a hate-motivated crime.
Police said on March 19 at about 7:00 a.m. officers attended the Dar Al-Tawheed Islamic Centre, near McAdam Road and Matheson Boulevard, to investigate an assault.
INSIDE THE mosque near to where the spraying occurred. Courtesy photos.
“It is alleged that a man walked into the mosque and discharged bear spray towards the members of the Mosque while brandishing a hatchet,” according to a release from police. “The members of the mosque quickly subdued the man until police arrived.”
Several worshippers received minor injuries as a result of the bear spray, police said.
“Violence of any kind is unacceptable in our community and we are taking this matter extremely seriously,” said Superintendent Rob Higgs. “We will continue to work closely with our community partners as our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Divisional Mobilization Officers continue to engage with faith leaders and community members.”
Mohammad Moiz Omar, of Mississauga, is charged with assault with a weapon, administering noxious substance with intent to endanger life or cause bodily harm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, utter threat to cause death or bodily harm, carrying concealed weapon and mischief to religious property
He was slated to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.
Anyone with information on this investigation is asked to call 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at (905) 453–2121, ext. 1233. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.