Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw has his force on alert monitoring the war in the Middle East.
Monday October 7 is the first-year anniversary of the war in the Middle East and Toronto Police are warning of more demonstrations, protests or violence.
Police Chief Myron Demkiw said there have been more than 1,500 demonstrations in Toronto since the attacks began in the Middle East.
“We know that the coming days and weeks will be a difficult time for many,” the Chief told members of the Jewish community. “Emotions are understandably running high and we recognize this is a moment of reflection and pain for many people.”
He said there has been more than 70 people arrested and charged with hate related crimes since the war began.
Officers will be more alert and on the street as the first year of the war in the Middle East approaches.
More officers will be patrolling around temples, mosques and other places of worship. There will also be a Major Incident Command Centre with dedicated officers on duty.
“We know world events always have an impact here at home,”Demkiw said. “This includes the potential for increased protest activity and acts of violence.”
He said three mobile command posts will be stationed in Jewish neighborhoods: one at Bathurst and Glencairn, another at Bathurst and Sheppard, and a third at Bathurst and Finch. A fourth mobile command post will be deployed to various mosques across the city.
Hate crimes have risen in Toronto, particularly targeting the Jewish community. This year 350 hate crimes have been reported to the Hate
Police said there has been more than 70 people arrested with hate crime offences and more than 1,500 demonstrations since the war began.
Crime Unit – a 40 per cent increase since last year. The greatest increase has been against the Jewish community, by 69 per cent.
One woman was arrested at Pearson International Airport several days ago who was wanted for offences related to two separate demonstrations as she was trying to leave the country, police said.
Demkiw said demonstrators have become increasingly confrontational, and police have seen assaults on officers, including the use of weapons and physical attacks. More than 500 officers were injured on the job so far this year.
“Communities are hurting, and the trauma of the conflict is deeply personal for many,” he said. “For those who have family members directly affected by the violence abroad, the feelings of helplessness and frustration are real.”
Police warn that charges can be laid days or weeks after a demonstration has taken place.