Edmonton, Alberta – Alberta RCMP wants all Albertans to know that they have a critical role to play in identifying people who may be vulnerable to recruitment by terrorist groups. In many instances, it is those closest to a radicalized individual, or an individual undergoing radicalization, who witness the changes in the individual’s behavior, beliefs, activities or topics of conversation that often accompany radicalization. While the RCMP acknowledges that it may be particularly difficult for friends, parents or family members to come forward to police, notifying authorities allows police to intervene at an early stage, before an individual has the opportunity to engage in violence which may harm members of the public or even themselves. Support coming from family, friends and the community for those who do bring their concerns to police is very important to this process and the RCMP will engage various supports that are appropriate to the people in need. As well, it is important for the public to consider the privacy of the people involved in these situations.
“Making the call might be difficult, but not as hard as dealing with what might happen if you don’t pick up the phone,” Inspector John Baranyi, Officer in Charge of the RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team in Alberta (INSET). “Early intervention is the only way to ensure that the individual gets access to the necessary support and assessment services before they do something they can’t undo.”
As part of its national security mandate, the RCMP has developed initiatives aimed at mitigating and countering any threats to the security and safety of Canadians, their livelihood, their property and critical infrastructure on the national, provincial and local community levels. At the same time, it must be recognized that protecting Canada’s national security requires the awareness and active engagement of citizens too, as it is a shared responsibility.
“Unfortunately, radicalization is something that can happen in any family or community, so every Canadian has a responsibility to help the police make sure it does not lead to senseless violence,” says Inspector John Baranyi.
For more information on National Security visit: http://www.rcmp.gc.ca/ pubs/nsci-ecrsn/1-800-eng.htm