Hate Crime unit called in after threats made to mosque in Pickering, Ontario

Threats made to a Pickering mosque has resulted in charges against a Toronto man.

Ivan John Mujan, 65, was charged with uttering threats officers after the Durham Police Hate Crime and Extremism Unit received information from the RCMP about threats made to the Ahmadiyya Durham Mosque Baitul Mahdi mosque on Salem Road in Pickering.

Mujan was identified and arrested at a residence in Toronto on Thursday.

He was released on an Undertaking.

“We recognize the significant impact these types of incidents have on our community, particularly among members of the Muslim communities. Acts that target or instill fear in any group are unacceptable and we remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone in our community,” Durham Police said in a statement. “We are working closely with community leaders to provide support and reassurance, and we stand firmly against hate, discrimination, and intolerance in all forms.”

Police noted ‘Hate Crime’ is not a standalone charge in the Criminal Code; instead, if a crime is motivated by hate, that factor can be considered during sentencing to increase the severity of the penalty.

Anyone with any information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Robertson of the Hate Crime and Extremism Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5859.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.