Toronto Launches Counter-Terrorism Units Amid Rising Hate Incidents

0:00It's March 25th. This is Toronto News today, AI-powered stories from your city. Toronto police have lost a new counter-terrorism security unit and task force guardian to boost safety amid rising hate incidents. This follows gunfire at synagogues and the U.S. consulate plus global extremism. The unit's focus on deterrence, not any specific threat right now. Officers and tactical gear, armed with patrol rifles, will patrol places of worship, public spots, and key infrastructure. They'll partner with the RCMP, provincial police, and others to spot and stop risks. This ramps up ahead of Toronto hosting six FIFA World Cup games in June. Jewish community leaders are praising the move as necessary and overdue. Groups like the Center for Israel and Jewish Affairs say threats to their community are real and urgent, turning words into violence. Haycrimes in Toronto hit 443 this year, a 19% jump from last year's 372.

1:01Protests have spilled into Jewish neighborhoods for over two years, prompting a city counsellor's motion to condemn hateful chance. These proactive steps signal Toronto's commitment to protecting everyone as tensions linger, with police bowing sustained visible presence for safer, streets ahead.