Motive unknown: Indian-origin man arrested in Canada for threatening to kill Brampton mayor Patrick Brown
A 29-year-old Indian-origin man from Punjab, Kanwarjot Singh Manoria, was arrested by the Peel Police in connection with threats to kill Brampton mayor
Patrick Brown
. He was taken into custody Tuesday and charged with making threats to cause death or bodily harm.
Canadian media reported that the threat was made via email to the mayor's office a few weeks ago, and the wife and the son of the mayor were also mentioned. Following the threat, Brown's security was increased, and his family members were also on the radar of the security detail.
Police said they nabbed the accused through the email that he sent. He was arrested following the execution of search warrants and seizure of electronic devices.
The motive of the threat remains unknown as the investigation is ongoing. Police said Kanwarjot was not acting with any group and there is no longer an active threat to the mayor, his family or the community.
In a statement posted on X, Brown said that he and his family wished to express their 'deepest appreciation' to PRP and its officers from the 22 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau for their work.
'We are relieved to learn they have apprehended an individual who allegedly made threats against us.
Violence and threats of violence have no place in a democracy. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Brampton, and threats will not deter me from doing the job they elected me to do,' he added.
At a press conference, Patrick Brown said he had "great confidence in Peel police" and that this wasn't the first time he'd received a threat. "I'm sure it won't be the last," said Brown. "I certainly want my family to be safe, and I believe they are, but it won't change my approach to be outspoken about public safety and to do my job accordingly."
Toronto mayor Olivia Chow said the threats against Brown were unacceptable. "I know him well and I hope he stays safe," Chow said at an unrelated news conference Wednesday, as reported by CBS News.
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