Peel Regional Police have launched an investigation following a protest incident at the Hindu Sabha Temple on The Gore Road in Brampton, which escalated on November 3 when officers responded to a trespassing complaint around noon. A video of the event, which surfaced online, captured a confrontation between a protester and an officer, igniting community concerns over police conduct during the protest.
According to a statement from Peel Regional Police, officers arrived on the scene with the intent to defuse tensions, but the situation intensified, resulting in an altercation between one officer and a demonstrator. The footage circulated on social media, drawing widespread attention and prompting Peel Police to conduct an internal review to address the public’s concerns.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter) by Tyler Bell Morena from the Crime Suppression Team, Peel Regional Police confirmed they are taking community concerns seriously. “Peel Regional Police understand the video raised concerns within the community. We take all complaints about officer conduct seriously and have conducted a thorough review of the incident,” the statement read.
Following the review, Peel Police determined that the officer involved had acted lawfully. The police clarified that the officer had attempted to disarm a protester who was allegedly in possession of a weapon and had refused repeated requests to surrender it. When the individual became confrontational, the officer’s response was deemed to be within the lawful execution of his duties. To promote transparency, Peel Police have released body-worn camera footage from the officer involved, aiming to provide additional context to the altercation.
Peel Police have since taken further steps to investigate and monitor potential criminal activity during the protest. A Strategic Investigative Team has been established to scrutinise any unlawful actions associated with the demonstrations on November 3 and 4. This team is currently seeking assistance from the public to identify suspects or witnesses who may have information related to the protests. “Anyone with information regarding suspects or general details about the events is encouraged to contact police investigators,” said a spokesperson from Peel Police. Additionally, community members can report information anonymously through Peel Crime Stoppers.
In their statement, Peel Regional Police reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which enshrines the right to peaceful assembly. However, they stressed a strict zero-tolerance policy for any acts of violence, threats, or property damage during public gatherings. “Peel Regional Police is committed to respecting an individual’s right to peacefully assemble. However, there is no tolerance for any acts of violence, threats of violence, or vandalism during peaceful assemblies,” the statement emphasised.
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The police commended individuals who had attended the protest peacefully and maintained order throughout the event. This appreciation was extended to all community members who had cooperated with police efforts to keep the situation controlled and nonviolent. The statement concluded with a call for continued cooperation from the public and urged anyone with relevant information to come forward, underscoring the police’s commitment to safety at public demonstrations.
As investigations progress, Peel Police have reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring the safety of both demonstrators and the wider community, stressing the importance of maintaining open channels for communication and transparency.
The incident underscores the balancing act faced by law enforcement between protecting public safety and respecting the rights of individuals to express dissent. As Peel Police continue their investigation, they are appealing to the community to contribute any additional information that may assist in resolving questions surrounding the protest and any related unlawful acts. The police’s approach highlights their efforts to manage community tensions sensitively while maintaining public order during contentious public gatherings.
