Organized crime has long been a major concern for governments around the world. These criminal groups, often involved in activities such as drug trafficking, money laundering, and human trafficking, have caused harm and instability in many countries. However, in recent years, there has been a growing recognition that some of these criminal organizations also have ties to terrorism. This has led to a shift in how these groups are viewed and dealt with by governments, including Canada.
In June 2021, Canada officially designated 13 groups as terrorist organizations, including five organized crime groups. This move marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to dealing with these groups and highlights the growing threat of organized crime and terrorism working together.
Among the five groups designated as terrorist organizations by Canada, one stands out – the Hells Angels. The notorious motorcycle gang, which originated in California in the 1940s, has been operating in Canada since the 1970s. Known for their criminal activities, including drug trafficking, extortion, and violence, the Hells Angels have long been on the radar of law enforcement agencies.
However, it wasn’t until recently that the Canadian government officially recognized the Hells Angels as a terrorist organization. This designation means that the group’s assets can be frozen, and anyone found to be supporting or working with the Hells Angels can face criminal charges.
But why has Canada taken this step, and what does it mean for the country’s fight against organized crime and terrorism?
The decision to designate the Hells Angels, along with four other organized crime groups, as terrorist organizations, was not made lightly. It came after a thorough assessment by the Canadian government’s Public Safety department, which concluded that these groups meet the criteria for terrorist organizations under the Criminal Code.
One of the main reasons for this designation is the growing evidence of ties between organized crime and terrorism. While these two criminal activities may seem separate, they often intersect and work together, creating a more significant threat to national security. For example, organized crime groups may provide funding or weapons to terrorist organizations, while terrorists may use the services of criminal organizations to carry out their activities.
The designation of these organized crime groups as terrorist organizations also sends a clear message that Canada will not tolerate any form of criminal activity, whether it’s drug trafficking or terrorism. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring the safety and security of the country.
Moreover, this move also allows for more robust legal measures to be taken against these groups. Designating them as terrorist organizations means that they can now be prosecuted under the country’s anti-terrorism laws, which carry harsher penalties than those for organized crime. This will make it easier for law enforcement agencies to disrupt and dismantle these groups, ultimately making Canada a safer place for its citizens.
However, the designation of these organized crime groups as terrorist organizations also raises concerns about the potential impact on civil liberties. Some critics argue that this move could lead to the erosion of civil rights, such as freedom of association and expression, as well as the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.
While these concerns are valid, it’s essential to remember that the designation of these groups as terrorist organizations does not automatically mean that all their members are terrorists. It simply means that the group as a whole is engaged in terrorist activities, and anyone found to be supporting or working with them can face criminal charges. This designation is a targeted approach to combatting these criminal organizations and does not infringe on the rights of individuals who are not involved in illegal activities.
In conclusion, Canada’s decision to designate five organized crime groups as terrorist organizations is a significant step in the fight against organized crime and terrorism. It highlights the growing threat of these two criminal activities working together and sends a clear message that Canada will not tolerate any form of criminal activity. This move will allow for more robust legal measures to be taken against these groups, ultimately making the country a safer place for its citizens. However, it’s crucial to ensure that this designation does not lead to the erosion of civil liberties and that individuals’ rights are protected throughout the process.
