The RCMP, along with several other police forces, are investigating a threat that was sent to Islamic schools nationwide, as confirmed by the national police force to CBC News. In a statement on Monday afternoon, the RCMP stated that law enforcement agencies are collaborating with school leadership to look into the reported threats and analyze all available information. The RCMP emphasized their dedication to public safety and urged individuals with any information or concerns to report them to the police.
Specifically, the RCMP’s northwest region, which covers the Prairie provinces, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, is handling the investigation regarding the note. The threatening note was distributed to multiple schools within the network of the Muslim Association of Canada, predominantly in Ontario, but also in Montreal and Vancouver.
Although the RCMP did not immediately clarify why the northwest region is leading the investigation, a portion of the note referenced the upcoming Alberta referendum, hinting at a potential secession vote and suggesting that Muslims would face deportation or harm once Alberta becomes independent.
Various police departments, including those in Ottawa, Waterloo Region, Peel Region, London, Ont., and Montreal, confirmed their involvement in the investigations last week after schools in their jurisdictions received the threatening note containing dehumanizing language towards Muslims. Vancouver police also announced they are conducting investigations and have heightened patrols throughout the city.
The RCMP emphasized that there is no information indicating an immediate threat, but they advised the public to remain vigilant. In response to the threats, federal and municipal officials, including Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree and Liberal MP Iqra Khalid, denounced the email and stressed the importance of standing against Islamophobia and hate crimes. Mississauga Mayor Carolyn Parrish and Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe also expressed deep concern over the threats towards Islamic schools and children.