The Canadian government announced Friday that four new terrorist entities had been added to its terror list, three of which are associated with far-right extremist ideology.
US-based Three Percenters militia, Aryan Strikeforce and American neo-Nazi James Mason were each said to have met the legal threshold for listing as set out in Canada’s Criminal Code, joining the 77 other entities currently listed. One Daesh affiliate was also added to the list on Friday.
Under section 83.05 of the Criminal Code, an entity can be added to the list where there are reasonable grounds to believe that the entity has knowingly carried out, attempted to carry out, participated in or facilitated a terrorist activity, or has knowingly acted on behalf of, at the direction of, or in association with such an entity. Once an entity is listed, its property is automatically frozen, and those who associate with the entity risk criminal prosecution.
The three far-right extremist entities join the Proud Boys on Canada’s list, which had been added in February for its “pivotal role” in the attack on the US Capitol. Six men affiliated with the Three Percenters were also formally charged with conspiracy for their involvement in that attack earlier this month.
In a press release, a government spokesperson stated:
Violent extremism and acts of terrorism have no place in Canadian society or abroad. The listing of terrorist entities under the Criminal Code sends a strong message that Canada will not tolerate this type of activity, and will do everything in its power to counter the ongoing threat to Canada’s national security and its citizens.
The Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Bill Blair commented:
Recent events should remove any doubts about the serious threat posed by ideologically-motivated violent extremism. The Criminal Code list of terrorist entities is an important tool to help us keep pace with these evolving threats and global trends. Intolerance and hate have no place in our society and the Government of Canada will continue to do all we can to keep Canadians safe from all threats, including terrorism and violent extremism.
Earlier this month, a Canadian man killed a Muslim family of four after he struck them with his vehicle. It is believed that he targeted the family specifically because of their Muslim faith. The perpetrator has now been charged with murder and engaging in a terrorist activity.
