EDMONTON, Alberta – Canadian authorities have revealed that the attack on Edmonton City Hall in January was deemed politically motivated, meeting the criteria for charges under terrorism laws. The RCMP’s national security team confirmed that during the incident, an SKS assault-style rifle, three prohibited rifle magazines, approximately 150 rounds of ammunition, and four gasoline-filled Molotov cocktails were seized at the scene, underscoring the potential danger posed by the assailant.
Superintendent Glenn Sells emphasized the significant risk posed to the public and the extent of destruction that could have occurred during the attack. The armed individual reportedly entered city hall through an underground parkade, discharged a firearm, and ignited several small incendiary devices, resulting in a minor fire near an elevator. Thankfully, no injuries were reported, although the gunfire caused damage to glass and structures within the building.
The presence of numerous occupants at the time of the incident, including Grade 1 students attending a class, prompted a swift response from law enforcement and tactical units. Following several hours of securing and evacuating the building, authorities were able to ensure the safety of those seeking refuge in different areas of the facility. Superintendent Sells described the attack on January 23, 2024, as a disruptive event that profoundly affected individuals present at Edmonton City Hall that day.
In light of the emerging details surrounding the attack, the RCMP determined that the incident fell within the realm of national security concerns. The subsequent arrest of Bezhani Sarvar, 28, on charges related to terrorism offenses marked a pivotal development in the investigation. Sarvar faces allegations of counseling a terrorism offense, possessing property for terrorist purposes, and various other charges linked to terrorism activities.
Authorities revealed that Sarvar, a former Canadian Forces veteran who had worked as a commissionaire at different Edmonton locations, posted a video online prior to his arrest. The video depicted Sarvar in a commissionaire’s jacket delivering a disjointed manifesto touching on various subjects such as societal issues and geopolitical conflicts. Once the RCMP assumed control of the case, additional investigative measures, including the execution of search warrants and analysis of electronic evidence, were conducted to further ascertain the details of the incident.
The meticulous examination of evidence, along with witness interviews and electronic data analysis, contributed to the progression of the case. The incident at Edmonton City Hall highlighted the importance of vigilance and swift response by law enforcement agencies in addressing potential security threats and maintaining public safety. As the investigation continues, authorities remain focused on ensuring accountability and the prosecution of individuals involved in terrorist activities.
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