Regina police warn “threats” over Islamic “call to prayer” could face Bill C-9 prosecution
The Regina Police Service issued a stern warning Monday that threats against Mu will be "taken seriously and investigated" under recently enhanced Canadian hate crimes legislation.
Regina Police said late Monday that threats following Friday’s Islamic call to prayer will be prosecuted under new Canadian hate crime laws.
“Threats will be taken seriously and investigated under recently enhanced Canadian hate crimes legislation,” reads the statement.
Regina City Jamia Masjid used rooftop speakers on McIntyre St. to project the 1 p.m. Adhan in a police-approved trial running at least through mid-July. It is expected to be heard within a one-kilometre radius of the building.
“The Regina Police Service (RPS) is aware of public discussion around a permit issued by the RPS to a local faith group to amplify their call to prayer via their downtown rooftop speaker,” reads the statement.
Police said the Adhan is broadcast for three minutes around noon on Fridays. Mosque officials confirmed it will air once weekly before Jumu’ah prayer.
Anisur Rahaman of the RCJM broadcast told media it would “help introduce” the mosque to both Muslim and non-Muslim residents from its downtown location. “We believe in multicultural diversity,” he added.
