Toronto Police have stepped up patrols around South Etobicoke temples and mosques following concerns from community leaders in the wake of the Hamas attack in Israel.

Chief Myron Demkiw said he’s increased patrols around places of worship in Toronto and set up two command posts in the Bathurst Street and Steeles Ave. W. area.

Demkiw said police were aware of “global online threats” circulating on October 11 about “events that may occur on October 13.”

“The Service is advising residents that there are currently no credible threats to Jewish communities in our city,” the Chief warned.

Investigators say that in the wake of the attack, police beefed up patrols in Jewish communities as well as cultural centres, synagogues, mosques and other places of worship across the city.

“People can expect to see a continued, increased police presence,” Demkiw said, adding that his officers are working with federal and provincial law enforcement agencies to coordinate and share information.

He said the beefed up police presence began following concerns from community leaders that the war between Israel and Hamas is causing fear in the city.

Officers from other areas have been moved from their regular duties to patrol the areas and work at the command posts.

There are a number of temples, mosques and synagogues in South Etobicoke in which police presence are escalated.

“We are continuing to monitor the situation here in Toronto and will deploy our officers to ensure residents feel a sense of safety and security,” police said.

Demkiw will be meeting in person with some of the community leaders to find out about their concerns and fears.

“We will not tolerate hate or hate speech in this city,” he said. “We are committed to monitoring the safety of citizens in our city.”

Police are investigating a number of incidents involving hateful graffiti sprayed on bus stops and walls in the Toronto area. There were also two cases of hateful graffiti in York Region, and other cities in Canada.