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Government Of Canada Lists Boko Haram As Terrorist Organisation

Following the United States Government’s November decision to designate Nigeria’s Boko Haram and Ansaru militant groups as foreign terrorist organisations, the government of Canada on … Continue reading Government Of Canada Lists Boko Haram As Terrorist Organisation


Following the United States Government’s November decision to designate Nigeria’s Boko Haram and Ansaru militant groups as foreign terrorist organisations, the government of Canada on Monday announced that it has also listed Boko Haram as a terrorist group under its criminal code.

In a statement by the Canadian Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Honourable Steven Blaney, the Government of Canada said it has listed Boko Haram and Caucasus Emirate (of Russia) as terrorist groups.

“Boko Haram is an organisation that is responsible for over 300 attacks in Northern Nigeria, which have resulted in the deaths of over 1,000 people. The Caucasus Emirate has carried out terrorist activities in Russia, resulting in the death and injury of many Russian civilians and security personnel. Listing these organizations as terrorist entities sends a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated,” said Minister Blaney.

“The Government of Canada is keeping our streets and communities safe. Listing terrorist entities facilitates the prosecution of perpetrators and supporters of terrorism, as well as countering terrorist financing,” added Minister Blaney.

According to MarketWired, the Criminal Code requires the existence of reasonable grounds to believe that the entity has knowingly participated in or facilitated a terrorist activity or is knowingly acting on behalf of, at the direction of, or in association with such an entity.

The Minister explained that the listing process requires extensive analysis of intelligence and/or criminal information.

Implications of the designation include the seizure or forfeiture of assets of persons or groups listed. Also, there may be severe penalties for persons and organizations that deal in the property or finances of a listed entity.

In addition, it has become a crime to knowingly participate in, or contribute to, any activity of a listed entity for the purpose of enhancing the ability of the entity to facilitate or carry out a terrorist activity.