Post by : Rameen Ariff

Ottawa – A movie theatre in Oakville, Ontario, has stopped screening Indian films after it was targeted in two violent attacks within one week. The incidents included an arson attempt and a shooting, forcing Film.ca Cinemas to remove major South Asian titles like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG from its lineup.

First Attack: Arson Attempt

The first attack took place on September 25 at around 5:20 am. According to police, two suspects carrying red gas cans poured a flammable liquid on the exterior entrance doors of the theatre and set it on fire. The blaze was quickly contained and caused only moderate damage to the outside of the property.

Security camera footage released by Film.ca showed a grey SUV arriving near the theatre around 2 am. A person in a hoodie was seen checking the entrance before leaving. Hours later, two individuals returned in another vehicle, poured fuel from red jerrycans, and lit a fire before escaping.

Police described the first suspect as a white individual wearing black pants, a black hoodie, dark high-top shoes, gloves, and a medical mask. The second suspect wore black pants, a black hoodie, white socks with slip-on sandals, gloves, and a mask, while holding a mobile phone.

Second Attack: Shooting Incident

A week later, on October 2, the theatre faced a second attack when a gunman fired several rounds through its entrance doors at around 1:50 am. Investigators described the shooter as a dark-skinned male with a heavy build, dressed entirely in black and wearing a face mask.

Authorities believe both attacks were targeted but have not confirmed a motive. Some local sources claimed the violence could be linked to Khalistani extremist groups, though police have not provided any evidence of such involvement.

Theatre’s Response

Jeff Knoll, CEO of Film.ca Cinemas, initially said that the theatre would continue to show South Asian movies despite the attacks. In a social media video, he explained that only the entrance had been damaged and the rest of the cinema was safe for visitors.

However, in a later statement issued on Thursday, the theatre confirmed that screenings of Indian films would be withdrawn for safety reasons. The statement read:
“Evidence seems to show that the participation in the exhibition of South Asian films has led to these incidents at our theatre and other theatres across the GTA. While we do not wish to bow to threats, the situation has escalated, and we must take every precaution to protect our community.”

Currently, the theatre’s official website shows no South Asian films in its screening list.

Other Theatres Follow Suit

The violent incidents have also affected other theatres in the region. York Cinemas, another popular theatre in Canada, announced that it would also cancel all Indian movie screenings until further notice.

In its statement, York Cinemas said:
“Due to recent incidents, we will not be screening Indian movies. The safety of our employees and guests remains our top priority. Advance ticket purchases will be refunded, and the refunded amount will reflect in your account within a few business days.”

Ongoing Investigation

Halton police continue to investigate both incidents and have urged anyone with information to contact the District Criminal Investigations Bureau. Authorities believe the attacks were deliberate and are seeking public help in identifying the suspects.

The suspension of Indian films like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and They Call Him OG has left many moviegoers disappointed, while the South Asian community in Canada has expressed concern over rising threats against cultural events.

#world news #Global News