Toronto 18 terrorist plot ringleader Zakaria Amara granted full parole

The ringleader of the so-called Toronto 18 terrorist group, Zakaria Amara, has been granted full parole. Global News, CP24, the Toronto Sun, and CKPG Today all reported that the parole board approved the full release because Amara no longer shows signs of extremism. The Daily Mail reported that the board cited his respectful, polite, and quiet demeanor. [1][2][3][4][5]

Amara, now 41 years old, was arrested in 2006 on the day that bomb-making materials were delivered, according to the Daily Mail. He pleaded guilty in the Canadian Superior Court of Justice in 2009 for his role in planning the extremist attacks. The Daily Mail noted that he received a nine-year sentence for organizing a terrorist training camp and a life sentence with no chance of parole for 10 years for plotting to construct a bomb. [1]

The plot involved plans to detonate bombs at three government buildings in Toronto before a police investigation thwarted the attack. The suspects in the 2006 Ontario counter-terrorism raids were characterized as having been inspired by al-Qaeda, resulting in the arrests of 14 adults and 4 youths across the Greater Toronto Area. [1][8]

Amara was previously denied parole before the board determined he no longer exhibits signs of extremism, according to CP24 and Global News. Following the decision of the parole board, the former terror group ringleader has now been released into the community. [1][2][3]