Arrests made after North Vancouver Islamic Centre protests

Mounties in North Vancouver are detailing acts of violence directed at members of a local Islamic centre, saying two people have been arrested in connection with recent events.

Police say on Nov. 18, about 50 protesters showed up at the Al Ghadir Islamic Center on Lynn Avenue and disrupted Friday prayers.

Worshippers were allegedly spat on, threatened, and assaulted. That’s on top of threats the centre had been getting on social media, investigators say.

“These individuals also insulted the Prophet of Islam, his family, and the Holy Quran, and left no stone unturned in their assault on our Center, including physically attacking the vehicles of program attendees, blocking the entrances to the building, and scaring away parents and teachers arriving at the venue,” a post on the centre’s social media reads, in part.

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Two arrests have been made to date — one for uttering threats and assault, and the other for uttering threats.

“While the right to engage in peaceful, lawful protest is a fundamental element of democracy, any protest must abide by Canadian law and must not compromise the safety and security of citizens,” said North Vancouver RCMP, Const. Mansoor Sahak.

“We will investigate any breaches of the law and fulfil our responsibility to ensure those who are responsible are held to account.”

The RCMP says more arrests are expected as investigations continue.

In the meantime, Mounties are “appealing for calm in the community.”

“Our main concerns are for the safety of the public and for the demonstrators’ rights to freedom of expression,” Sahak said, adding, “We will not tolerate abusive and criminal behaviour.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RCMP at 604.985.1311.