Toronto Police Restrict Protests From Residential Streets Near Bathurst–Sheppard

Overview

• Toronto Police, which announced the policy Tuesday, barred pro‑Palestinian demonstrators from entering residential side streets around the Bathurst and Sheppard intersection in North York.
• Protests may continue at the main intersection and along Bathurst Street and Sheppard Avenue, and officers will issue a verbal warning before arresting noncompliant individuals for obstructing police.
• Police cited a rise in tension and fear in the neighborhood after shootings at three Toronto synagogues this month, describing residential‑area marches as an unacceptable public‑safety risk.
• Chief Myron Demkiw unveiled a new counter‑terrorism security unit and Task Force Guardian to boost protection at places of worship and tourist sites, with more visible tactical patrols.
• Civil‑liberties advocates argue the curb likely violates Charter rights to expression and assembly, while police say the order is confined to this area for now and could widen if needed; a local councillor plans a motion seeking stronger enforcement.