In a disturbing incident that took place last month, a man has been apprehended and is now facing multiple charges after reportedly attempting to target worshippers with his vehicle at two mosques in Scarborough.

The Toronto police responded promptly to calls from the affected mosques, located near Lawrence Avenue East and Markham Road, as well as Lawrence Avenue East and Midland Avenue, between the early hours of 5:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. on April 6.

According to law enforcement officials, the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Sharan Karunakaran, drove a dark-coloured vehicle into the mosque parking lots with the alleged intention of striking both worshippers and other vehicles.

This unsettling incident was followed by the perpetrator’s visit to Scarborough Town Centre, where he reportedly harassed and threatened several customers, unleashing a barrage of anti-Islamic and derogatory remarks.

The suspect has been charged with a total of more than a dozen offenses, including criminal harassment (five counts), dangerous operation of a conveyance (two counts), assault with a weapon (two counts), uttering threats of bodily harm, assault, indecent exhibition in a public place, and committing an indecent act with intent to insult/offend another.

In a disconcerting turn of events, the Toronto police have confirmed that Karunakaran is the same individual who was arrested by the York Regional Police (YRP) on April 7 following a similar incident at a mosque in Markham the day before. At the Islamic Society of Markham, the suspect allegedly drove directly towards a worshipper, accompanied by threats and religious slurs. In connection with this incident, Karunakaran is facing three charges.

Law enforcement agencies are treating these incidents as hate-motivated, emphasizing the gravity of such acts of intolerance. Toronto police are collaborating with the YRP to investigate these distressing occurrences further.

Currently, Karunakaran remains in custody in York Region pending a bail hearing. It is crucial to note that the charges against him have not yet been proven in court.

The incidents involving the alleged hate-motivated attacks at Scarborough mosques have sparked concern and condemnation within the community. The authorities urge anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. You can contact investigators at 416-808-3506 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or www.222tips.com.