Toronto Police Must Investigate Assault of Muslim Women Inside Walmart As Potential Hate-Motivated Crime

The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM) calls on the Toronto Police Service (TPS) to immediately investigate the assault of a Muslim woman inside a local Walmart as a potentially hate-motivated crime.

On January 8th, 2023, a young Muslim woman wearing the niqab was going down an escalator inside a Toronto Walmart when an unidentified male punched her in the face, causing her to lose consciousness and fall down the escalator. The attack resulted in her sustaining serious injuries.

Many witnesses were present at the time of the assault and the incident was soon reported to TPS. Yet weeks later, the police have yet to locate the suspect.

“Moreover, much to our disappointment, the police have yet to offer any meaningful updates on the case at all,” said NCCM Stephen Brown. “There were many eyewitnesses, but the authorities have not, as far as we know, moved on the matter despite weeks having elapsed.”

The victim, on the other hand, has suffered horrible physical and mental damage, including a severe concussion that has not healed. Other injuries include severe damage to her head and face. She has been hospitalized since the incident.

This is a serious matter that police must investigate with immediacy to retain the trust of the broader community that is eager to see the suspect arrested and justice delivered. Now is not a time for foot-dragging and constant delays.