VicPD confirmed officers were in attendance at the Victoria International Jewish Film Festival (VIJFF) Sunday afternoon after organizers of the annual event received an anti-Semitic threat.
The festival was being held at the Vic Theatre on Douglas Street from November 1st to 6th.
“Officers ensured that attendees were safe and a Jewish film festival’s events were able to take place after threats were reported this weekend,” said police spokesman Bowen Osoko.
Following the threats, VicPD launched an investigation and created a safety plan after being notified Friday that threats targeting the VIJFF, and the Jewish community at large.
Police would not release the details of the threats made; however, investigators say the threats made specific reference to the film festival’s location in the 800-block of Douglas Street. It also included additional concerning details, police said.
“Specially-trained VicPD officers responded and swept the venue and the surrounding area to ensure that it was safe,” said Osoko.
The investigation remains ongoing.
