Canadian PM condemns Edmonton incident

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Sunday condemned the incident that ended up wounding five people including a policeman in Edmonton Saturday night, calling it a terror attack.

In a statement, Trudeau said his government and Canadians stand with the people of Edmonton after the attack. "I am deeply concerned and outraged by this tragedy."

A man attacked a police officer with a knife Saturday night and hit four pedestrians on busy downtown when running away. The suspect is reportedly a Somali refugee once investigated for espousing extremism.

Officers were placing evidence markers around the wrecked truck. /Reuters Photo

The injured police officer was taken to the hospital and treated for non life-threatening injuries. The four pedestrians suffered injuries that ranged from "broken arms to brain bleeds."

Police believe the unprovoked attacks were acts of terrorism.

While the investigation continues, early reports indicate that this is another example of the hate that Canadians must remain ever vigilant against, Trudeau said.

"We cannot – and will not – let violent extremism take root in our communities," said the Canadian prime minister. "We know that Canada's strength comes from our diversity, and we will not be cowed by those who seek to divide us or promote fear."

"Edmonton is a strong and resilient city, and I am confident that its citizens will support one another to overcome this tragic event," he added.

Canadian politicians and Muslim community leaders are also cautioning against potential community backlash after the suspected terrorist attack in Edmonton.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency