RCMP Statement – Final OSAGE sentencing

Today, Shareef Abdelhaleen, the final accused in Project OSAGE was sentenced to life in prison for his participation in a terrorist group whose intent was to bomb a number of symbolic Canadian institutions. Throughout the trials, countless pieces of evidence showed the seriousness of this threat. Had this plot been carried out, it would have resulted in innocent people being killed, many others being seriously injured, extensive property damage, and economic and social harm.

Now that these trials have successfully ended with the conviction of the final suspect, this case is a clear demonstration that an effective response to terrorism, lies within our criminal justice system, of which the RCMP is a key component. This ensures due process and the upholding of our democratic rights and freedoms.

This national security criminal investigation was part of a long, resource-intensive and complex investigation involving several agencies, both domestic and international. Countering the threat of terrorism requires a team effort, such as the one exemplified by the O Division Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET), which is represented by employees from the RCMP, CSIS, CBSA, the Toronto Police Service, Peel Regional Police and other law enforcement partners. This integrated approach, also used by our other INSETs across Canada, capitalizes on  the experience and expertise of agencies to detect, prevent, and investigate terrorists threats in Canada so that terrorists can be held accountable for their actions in a court of law.

I personally commend the efforts of the INSET, the prosecution team, and all those who worked tirelessly on this case for the past five years. We should take comfort in the results of this investigation, and pride in the way the work was carried out.

The conclusion of this case serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant. The RCMP is committed to keeping Canada safe and secure from coast to coast to coast.

Gilles Michaud
Assistant Commissioner,
RCMP National Security Criminal Investigations