Calgary man allegedly joined the Islamic State, faces terrorism charges

CALGARY (CITYNEWS) – A Calgary man with alleged ties to the Islamic State terrorist group was charged with terrorism-related offences Wednesday following a seven-year investigation.

Alberta RCMP charged 34-year-old Hussein Sobhe Borhot with three counts of participation in terrorist activity, and one count of committing a terrorist offence.

Borhot was taken into custody and will appear in provincial court Friday.

The RCMP say Borhot travelled to Syria between 2013 and 2014 where he enlisted with the Islamic State, received training, and participated in terrorist activities, including a kidnapping.

“It’s important that law enforcement send a message that there is no immunity for Canadians who go abroad to commit acts of terrorism, to victimize the innocent, and in some cases to also attack Canadian military personnel,” said Alberta Premier Jason Kenney. “Very important that we underscore that there are the strongest possible legal sanctions for that kind of gross violent behaviour targeting the innocent.

“It was outrageous to see Canadians leave the peace and security of this country, that’s given them so much freedom and opportunity, to go abroad effectively to fight Canadian troops who were standing up for international security, peace and democracy.”

The seven-year investigation into Borhot’s activities was led by the RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET).

“Canada is not immune to terrorist threats, and INSETs are key players defending Canada’s national security,” the RCMP’s Stacey Talbot said in a release. “Through an integrated law enforcement approach, the RCMP and its partners are in a better position to prevent, detect, deny and respond to threats to Canada’s national security.”

The RCMP say the investigation is ongoing and further arrests or charges could be forthcoming.

UPDATE:

In a press release from the Muslim Council of Calgary Foundation, they denounced the actions of Borhot.

“The essence is what we stand for as Muslims in Canada and as citizens that are part of the Canadian fabric. We are very disturbed that there is such an individual in our community who would act in such away.”

“There is nowhere in Islam for terrorism. This is a misunderstanding of these individuals and MCCF condemn these actions to the fullest. The MCCF is always in contact with the federal and local law enforcement agencies to be cautious about any unlawful activities that could harm our Canadian society.”