Suspect named in antisemitic vandalism of prominent Montreal synagogue

A suspect has been named in connection with the antisemitic vandalism of a prominent Montreal synagogue.

Adam Riga, who also goes by the name Adam Rackett, has reportedly been identified as the man charged with the antisemitic vandalism of the Shaar Hashomayim Synagogue in Montreal.

One of the Canadian city’s major Jewish landmarks, the synagogue was spray-painted with swastikas a week ago. In a letter to congregants, the synagogue’s Rabbi Adam Scheier said that the perpetrator, who had been stopped by a synagogue security guard, was carrying a canister of gasoline when arrested after spray-painting doors of the synagogue with swastikas.

Mr Riga is understood to be a supporter of the movement to boycott Israel.

Montreal police said that a psychological exam had been ordered on the a 28-year-old, as he appeared to be suffering from mental health problems.

On Twitter, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the vandalism “despicable,” while Marc Miller, the Indigenous Services Minister, condemned it as an “utter disgrace.”

Former Premier Stephen Harper tweeted that his prayers were with the Shaar Hashomayim Synagogue and its congregation. “I’m saddened and appalled to see such a vile antisemitic attack on a place so sacred to the Montreal Jewish community,” he declared, adding: “We must come together as Canadians and denounce all forms of hatred.”

Rabbi Reuben Poupko, co-Chair of Québec’s main Jewish representative organisation, said yjsy the Jewish community was “outraged” by the “vile assault on Congregation Shaar Hashomayim.” He added: “This attack targets the entire community and all those who embrace civility and tolerance.”

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