The incident began on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, when Toronto Police received a report of threatening online content. It is alleged that the accused, Amaka Patience Sonnberger, 46, of Toronto, posted messages online on or about August 25, 2024, that threatened the lives of specific individuals within the Nigerian community.
Sonnberger’s arrest comes in the wake of a wave of outrage that swept across social media platforms in Nigeria. On August 29, 2024, concerned Nigerian citizens called for her arrest after a controversial TikTok video went viral. In the video, Sonnberger and others allegedly advocated for the poisoning of Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin descent, inciting violence and hate towards these groups. The video triggered a significant public outcry, with many demanding immediate action from authorities.
Following an investigation, Sonnberger was arrested on Sunday, September 1, 2024. She has been charged with Uttering Threats, a serious criminal offence under Canadian law. Sonnberger is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice, located at 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Monday, September 2, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., in courtroom 107.
Suspected Hate-Motivated Crime
This incident is being treated as a suspected hate-motivated offence due to the nature of the threats and the specific targeting of the Nigerian community. When crimes are suspected to be motivated by bias, prejudice, or hatred, Toronto Police investigators work closely with the Hate Crime Unit (HCU) to assess and pursue the case. Depending on the circumstances, these investigations may be led by a divisional investigator with HCU support or exclusively by the HCU.
Hate-motivated offences such as assault, mischief, or uttering threats carry serious consequences, particularly when it is proven that the offence was motivated by hate. In such cases, the Crown may consult with the officer-in-charge, and if the individual is convicted, hate can be considered an aggravating factor during sentencing, potentially leading to harsher penalties.
International Uproar and Hate Propaganda Charges
Sonnberger’s arrest has garnered international attention, particularly from Nigerian social media users who were outraged by the content of her video. The incident has underscored the potential global impact of online hate speech and the importance of addressing it swiftly.
In Canada, hate propaganda offences, including the willful promotion of hatred and advocating genocide, require the consent of the Attorney General before charges can be laid. These charges, which fall under the category of hate speech offences, may be brought forward later in the investigation, depending on the evidence gathered.
The Toronto Police Service continues to take hate-motivated crimes seriously, emphasizing the importance of community safety and justice for all members of society. Individuals with any information about this investigation are urged to contact the Toronto Police at 416-808-3500. Alternatively, anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or through their website at www.222tips.com.
Community Impact and Global Reactions
This incident has raised concerns not only within Toronto’s Nigerian community but also internationally, particularly in Nigeria, where social media users have expressed fear and anger over the alleged threats. The video has sparked a broader conversation about hate speech and the responsibilities of individuals using online platforms.
Toronto’s diverse communities are reminded of the importance of reporting hate crimes and threats to law enforcement. The Toronto Police Service is committed to working with all communities to ensure safety and security.
As the case proceeds through the legal system, updates will be provided. The Toronto Police continue to monitor the situation closely, and further charges may be brought forward as the investigation develops.
For more information on hate-motivated offences and how they are handled in Toronto, residents are encouraged to contact the Toronto Police Service or visit their website.
