Toronto police say the investigation into the shooting at the U.S. Consulate in downtown Toronto has expanded significantly, with authorities alleging that two suspects were recruited through encrypted messaging platforms as part of a broader “criminals-for-hire” network.
Police said the suspects allegedly received offers of payment to carry out the attack. One of those arrested is a 15-year-old, whose identity cannot legally be released under Canada’s youth justice laws. The other suspect has been identified as 19-year-old Xen-Ul-Abdeen Syed.
According to investigators, the suspects allegedly fired at least one round toward the U.S. Consulate on July 27 while travelling in a stolen, unplated Honda Accord. No injuries were reported in the incident.
Police said the vehicle was later located and pursued toward Scarborough. The pursuit was eventually discontinued because of safety concerns, after which investigators say the vehicle was abandoned.
Police Investigating Possible Organized Crime Connection
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw said investigators believe the circumstances surrounding the July shooting are consistent with a previous attack targeting the same building in March.
Rather than treating the case as an isolated incident, investigators are now examining whether the suspects were acting on behalf of individuals who organize and direct criminal activity remotely.
Police allege that the wider network may have connections to several serious offences, including shootings, homicides and vehicle arsons. Investigators are also examining possible links to recent attacks involving Jewish-owned bakeries.
Authorities believe the alleged operation may involve numerous individuals performing different roles. Police said some recruits may be promised money for carrying out crimes but never receive the payment.
Another Alleged Arson Under Investigation
Investigators also allege that the two suspects were connected to a vehicle arson in Caledon several days before the consulate shooting.
Police say a vehicle was allegedly stolen before gasoline was obtained and another vehicle was set on fire. Detectives are examining whether that incident formed part of the same criminal operation.
The investigation is now focused not only on the individuals accused of carrying out specific offences but also on those who allegedly recruit, coordinate and finance criminal activity.
Authorities Warn About Online Recruitment
The case has raised concerns among law enforcement officials about the use of encrypted communication platforms to recruit young people into criminal activity.
Police say individuals at the lowest levels of such operations may be given specific assignments without necessarily knowing who is directing the broader network. Investigators believe dozens of people could potentially be connected to different levels of the alleged operation.
Authorities emphasized that the investigation remains active and that additional arrests are possible as detectives identify individuals they believe are involved.
The allegations have not been proven in court, and the accused are entitled to due process. Police continue to gather evidence and determine the full scope of the alleged network and its connection to the attacks under investigation.
