A wanted fugitive from the United States has sought asylum in the Canadian resort town of Whistler, sparking concerns of potential violence and unrest in the area.
According to reports, the individual is a known rioter who participated in the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6th. The riot, which was incited by former President Donald Trump, resulted in the deaths of five people and caused widespread damage to the building.
The fugitive, who has not been named, is believed to have fled to Canada in an attempt to evade arrest and prosecution in the U.S. It is unclear how they entered the country, but it is suspected that they may have crossed the border illegally.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has confirmed that they are aware of the situation and are working with U.S. authorities to locate and apprehend the individual. They have also issued a warning to the public, urging them to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton has expressed concern over the potential impact of the fugitive’s presence in the town. In a statement, he said, “We take the safety and security of our community very seriously. We are working closely with the RCMP to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to protect our residents and visitors.”
The incident has also raised questions about Canada’s asylum system and the potential for individuals to exploit it for their own gain. Immigration lawyer Richard Kurland told CTV News that seeking asylum in Canada is not a “get out of jail free card” and that the process is rigorous and heavily scrutinized.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Justice has issued a statement condemning the actions of the fugitive and warning that they will be held accountable for their involvement in the Capitol riot.
As the situation continues to unfold, authorities are urging the public to remain calm and report any information that may lead to the apprehension of the fugitive. The safety and security of both Canadians and Americans must be the top priority in this situation.
