The number of hate crime calls to Toronto police has risen since the war between Israel and Hamas broke out earlier this month, the police chief has said.
During Thursday's Toronto Police Services board meeting, Chief Myron Demkiw said the daily average of hate-related calls for service increased by 132 per cent since the Israel-Hamas war began.
Between Jan. 1 and Oct. 7, Toronto police received 237 hate crime reports, up from the 192 incidents reported in the same period last year. "We have been clear, and we remain resolute that Toronto Police Service will not tolerate acts of violence, intimidation, or hate toward anyone or any community. We will facilitate lawful protest. We will be vigilant and resolute in our service to our communities and the residents of this city," Demkiw said.
"I've heard directly that they are not only concerned for their family and friends living in the conflicted regions, but they're also fearful for their own safety here in our city."
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