Increased Police Presence at Al Quds Rally
There will be an increased police presence in the city on March 14 as crowds gather for events marking Al-Quds Day.
There will also be road closures or disruptions in parts of the downtown core while the event is underway, beginning at approximately noon on Saturday.
“Our priority, as always, is to ensure the safety of everyone involved, including participants, counter-protesters, residents, visitors and our officers,” said Superintendent Craig Young at a news conference at police headquarters on March 12. “Our Major Incident Command Centre will be activated to support this event, allowing us to monitor developments in real time and coordinate resources as needed.”
He said TPS will be working closely with municipal, provincial and federal partners, as well as its intelligence partners, to monitor any potential risks and ensure they are prepared to respond if circumstances change.
“During the event, our Police Liaison Team will be present to communicate with organizers and participants, help reduce tensions and support a safe environment where people can express their views lawfully,” noted Young. “In Canada, people have the right to assemble and express their opinions. Those rights are fundamental. At the same time, everyone must respect the law.”
He said Toronto Police are present at these gatherings to maintain public order, facilitate crowd safety and ensure that people can exercise their rights.
“We also want to be clear that interfering with officers, obstructing police duties or engaging in violence will not be tolerated,” said Young. “Anyone who engages in criminal behaviour can expect that the law will be enforced.”
There will be restricted airspace above and around the U.S. Consulate this weekend, applying to drone operations, including micro-drones.
“We are asking everyone who plans to attend, whether they are participating in the event or protesting it, to do so lawfully and respectfully,” Young said. “We also recognize that this year’s event is taking place during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions. Developments in the Middle East, including recent military actions involving Iran, have increased emotions and sensitivities within many communities here in Toronto.”
Within the last two weeks, there has been violence targeting three synagogues in the Greater Toronto Area and the U.S. Consulate on Tuesday. These incidents have heightened concerns and contributed to a greater sense of fear and unease in the city.
“People are watching these developments closely, and some are feeling concerned about how these tensions may play out during Saturday’s event,” said Young. “In particular, there are concerns about the potential for hateful rhetoric, as well as the possibility of confrontation between individuals or groups with opposing views.”
“I want to be clear: Toronto Police take all reports of hate very seriously. Our members will be present throughout the demonstration, and we will be actively monitoring for any incidents involving hate speech, hate-motivated crimes, hateful signage or the display of symbols associated with terrorist organizations designated by the Government of Canada.”
He said any reported incident will be investigated.
“And it’s important to remember that charges do not have to be immediate,” Young added. “Evidence gathered during or after an event can lead to charges being laid hours, days or even weeks later. Anyone who engages in criminal activity should expect to be held accountable. Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world. People here hold a wide range of views and beliefs. Our shared responsibility is to ensure that our city remains safe, respectful and welcoming for everyone.”
