The National Council for Canadian Muslims say an attack happened in London against women wearing hijabs. The alleged attacker was yelling Islamophobic and anti-Palestinian threats and brandishing a knife. The NCCM in collaboration with Hikma Public Affairs Council say they are assisting the woman with legal counsel.
Please see the statement from Hikma Public Affairs Council in London about the most recent attack. pic.twitter.com/fh48u480nG
— NCCM (@nccm) September 26, 2024
Prime Minister Trudeau also commented in a social media post about the assault saying, “I’m angry to learn that women wearing hijabs were the target of a violent attack in London.”
UPDATE: Police say James Edward Henkel, 79 has been charged with three counts of assault with a weapon, two counts of assault and damage to property not exceeding $5,000. He is in police custody. The investigation has been assigned to the London Police Service Hate Crime Unit and is being investigated as hate-motivated.
According to their statement, a woman wearing a hijab was attacked near Berkshire Drive and Berkshire Place. She called out for help and another woman came to her aid when the man assaulted both women, damaging the property of one. A nearby civilian approached when the man threatened all three and then fled on foot. Both women sustained minor injuries not requiring medical attention.
The accused will appear in court on November 5. in relation to the incident.
