130 Canadians Support Foreign Terrorists: 30 in Syria

Local Editor

A senior intelligence official stated that some 130 Canadians are working abroad in support of terrorist activities - including about 30 in Syria alone.

Michel Coulombe, director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, told a Senate committee the individuals' activities include paramilitary operations, training in weapons and explosives, logistical support, terrorist fundraising and studying in extremist schools.

Two cases of young Canadian men who died in hostilities in Syria recently grabbed headlines.

Coulombe added some never achieve their intent and simply return home, potentially posing a more immediate threat to Canadians.
He also mentioned that CSIS actively investigates such people, but the probes are challenging, resulting in gaps in the spy agency's understanding.

Coulombe added that the number of Canadians overseas is in constant flux, their motivations are difficult to ascertain and their movements across isolated terrain are difficult to track.

CSIS stated the problem is not unique to Canada, and there is no simple solution.

Source: News Agencies, Edited by website team