Canadian police arrest woman for suspected hate-motivated threats against Yoruba, Benin communities

The Toronto Police Service arrested Amaka Sonnberger, 46, for allegedly posting online content threatening the lives of specific members of the Nigerian community.

The arrest follows a report received on August 28, 2024, regarding a threatening incident that occurred on or around August 25, 2024.

Sonnberger, a Toronto resident, has been charged with uttering threats and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, September 2, 2024, at the Ontario Court of Justice. The investigation is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence, with police urging anyone with information to come forward.

Thediscovererng.com had reported that the incident sparked widespread outrage, with prominent Nigerians, including Peter Obi and Abubakar Atiku, condemning the hate-motivated threats and calling for swift justice. The Nigerian House of Representatives and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission had petitioned the Canadian authorities, demanding an investigation and prosecution of Sonnberger.

The Toronto Police Service emphasized that hate-motivated crimes may involve consultation with the Crown, and if convicted, hate is considered an aggravating factor in sentencing. The investigation is ongoing, with police working to ensure that such acts are met with the full force of the law.

This development marks a significant step towards addressing hate-motivated threats and promoting unity and tolerance in the face of divisive actions.