Prosecutions and Seizures

Northern Ontario Region

Third Ottawa street gang member deported from Canada

Ottawa, Ontario, February 3, 2009 — The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) today confirmed the deportation of Omar Gather, a 24-year-old Ottawa man associated with street gangs. Mr. Gather was removed from Canada under escort by CBSA officers on January 28, 2009.

Mr. Gather has been convicted of 31 offences including assault causing bodily harm; obstructing a peace officer and failing to attend court; aggravated assault and possession of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance and probation violations; and possession of a firearm. He also had three assault and misconduct charges while incarcerated.

Mr. Gather is the third member of the Ledbury-Banff Crips street gang to be deported in the last 12 months. Remy Maliragora was deported in July 2008 and Sharmarke Ali in January 2008.

Canada will not be a safe haven for those involved in serious criminality. The CBSA works diligently with other law enforcement organizations to remove individuals who pose a danger to the safety and security of Canadians.

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For media information:

Chris Kealey
Communications
Canada Border Services Agency
613-991-5197