Emergency crews responded to a fire at Shaaz Indian Cuisine, located at 2300 Lawrence Avenue East, on Friday, May 23. Three masked suspects allegedly forced their way into the restaurant, poured an accelerant throughout the premises, and set it ablaze before fleeing the area.
Several employees who were inside at the time managed to exit safely without injury. The incident has left many in shock, as police believe it is connected to another suspicious fire that occurred just over 24 hours later.
On Saturday, May 24, police received a call about a fire at Bisi Bisi, located at 1198 Kennedy Road near Lawrence Avenue East. According to police reports, two masked suspects broke in and set a fire inside using an accelerant before fleeing in a silver SUV.
Toronto lawyer Rajesh Kumar, representing the owners of both restaurants, stated that they are still trying to determine the extent of the damage from each incident but believe it will take months for them to recover financially.
"This type of crime is a deliberate and cowardly act of arson that has no place in Canada," Kumar stated firmly.
The investigation into these incidents is ongoing, with the Toronto Police Service’s Major Crime Unit leading efforts.
In response to these attacks on local businesses, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her support for those affected.
"We stand with our small business owners who have been targeted by senseless acts of violence," she said. "We will do everything we can as city officials."
The City’s Economic Development Office has offered assistance through its Small Business Relief Fund program, which provides financial support for businesses impacted by crime or other unforeseen events.
Residents are encouraged to report any information related to this investigation and to share their thoughts on how to prevent such crimes from happening again.
By working together, we can create safer communities where everyone feels welcome and supported.
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