Toronto-Area Iranian-Owned Boxing Gym Targeted in Early Morning Shooting
An Iranian-owned boxing gym in Thornhill, Ontario, was struck by gunfire in the early hours of Sunday morning, in what appears to be a targeted threat against activists opposing the Islamic Republic of Iran. York Regional Police responded to reports of a shooting at Saliwan Boxing, located near Yonge Street and Steeles Avenue West, around 3 a.m.
Scene of the Incident
Videos shared on social media by Salar Gholami, the gym's owner and a prominent activist in anti-regime protests across the Greater Toronto Area, show the entrance riddled with bullet holes and shattered glass. The footage also depicts the gym draped with an Iranian lion and sun flag, a symbol outlawed by the current Iranian government.
Gholami, wearing a sweater featuring an image of former King Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, stated in a post, "This happened exactly one hour after people had gathered here to deliberate the death of the oppressive leader of the Islamic Republic." He expressed concern over potential casualties, adding, "Imagine if families and children had still been here when those shots were fired. The consequences could have been catastrophic."
Police Investigation and Statements
York Regional Police Inspector Jason DinsMore confirmed that the shooting is believed to be targeted, though a motive has not been established. Officers are canvassing local businesses and residences for a suspect vehicle and description. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
In a statement shared by Gholami's spokesperson, Pouria Afkhami, the incident was framed as a broader safety issue: "It shows that it's no longer safe here for Canadians themselves, it's not just about Iranians. They've created a place where Canadian citizens cannot live comfortably."
Activism and Alleged Regime Involvement
Gholami directly links the shooting to his activism, suggesting involvement by agents of the Islamic regime. He referenced a ruling by Iran's Supreme Leader, stating, "According to the Supreme Leader's [ruling]... they had said this themselves before, that we will punish those who organize rallies and demonstrations abroad, and this is part of the IRGC's policies."
His group has organized large-scale protests in Toronto, with police reporting attendance of 150,000 at a march on February 1 and over 350,000 at a solidarity protest on February 14, setting records for the city. Toronto Police noted no incidents at these events, where Iranians were seen handing flowers to officers.
Canadian Security Concerns
Canadian authorities are aware of threats by the Islamic regime against dissidents in the country. Daniel Rogers, director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, highlighted at a November press conference that efforts have been reprioritized to counter Iranian intelligence services. He stated, "In more than one case, this involved detecting, investigating, and disrupting potentially lethal threats against individuals in Canada."
Gholami criticized the Canadian government's dealings with Iranian authorities, telling Iran International, "This is what happens when the Canadian government deals with the Mullahs and lets them in. 17 bullets could have meant 17 dead Canadians." The investigation remains ongoing as police seek further leads.
