Toronto man charged with hate crime, 2 others wanted after Brampton protests

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A 57-year-old Toronto man is facing a hate crime charge and two other men are wanted on conspiracy charges in connection with a large demonstration that required police intervention on Monday near a Hindu temple in Brampton.

Peel Regional Police said officers responded to a demonstration at Hindu Sabha Mandir on The Gore Rd. in Brampton on Monday. That was the same day when Peel’s public order unit was mobilized to “ensure the safety of all participants” after weapons were allegedly spotted in the crowd while Sikh and Hindu protesters held rallies in the area.

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Const. Tyler Bell-Morena said order was restored when both crowds dispersed.

“Following the demonstration, several videos began to surface online which captured several offences taking place, including a video of an individual using a loudspeaker inciting violence and hate,” Bell-Morena said in a video posted on the service’s YouTube account.

A statement from police said the person was allegedly calling for groups to storm Sikh temples.

Ranendra Lal Banerjee was arrested on Wednesday and charged with public incitement of hatred. He was later released with conditions.

Police have also issued arrest warrants for Armaan Gahlot, 24, of Kitchener, and Arpit (no surname), 22, of no fixed address, for uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, conspiracy to commit assault with a weapon and conspiracy to commit mischief.

“As investigators make attempts to locate these individuals, they are encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn themselves in to the police,” Bell-Morena said.

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Peel police have also formed a strategic investigative team focusing on “all instances of criminality” linked to Sikh and Hindu protests earlier this week, which allegedly included violent clashes at Hindu Sabha Mandir on Sunday as well.

The incidents have led to India’s consulate in Toronto halting some diplomatic visits, the suspension of a Peel police officer allegedly spotted at a rally and calls to ban protests outside of religious sites.

Bell-Morena said the service respects the rights of people to protest “lawfully and peacefully,” but he added that violence and criminality is “unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“Any such incidents will be fully investigated by our service,” he said.

Anyone with any information can contact investigators at 905-453-2121, Ext. 1233 or 2133, or Peel Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or peelcrimestoppers.ca. The service has also set up a dedicated web link for anyone who may have video footage of the demonstrations.