Canada (VINnews) – Toronto police are stepping up security around Jewish communities ahead of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, with Police Chief Myron Demkiw warning that anyone who turns demonstrations into criminal activity will face arrest.

Demkiw said Tuesday that officers will be deployed in greater numbers during the upcoming holidays, with both uniformed and undercover personnel working alongside the Jewish community’s security network.

“We will have police officers embedded with the Jewish security network over the coming weeks,” Demkiw said.

The enhanced security comes as Toronto’s Jewish community faces continued concerns over antisemitism, including shootings targeting synagogues. Demkiw said police have made 573 arrests since Oct. 7, 2023.

He also issued a direct warning to those who may attempt to disrupt Jewish gatherings.

“If you engage in criminal behavior, we will find you, we will arrest you, and we will lay charges against you,” Demkiw said.

Police will establish strategic command posts at several locations, including Bathurst Street and Sheppard Avenue, an area that has been a frequent gathering point for anti-Israel demonstrators.

Mayor Olivia Chow said the city wants Jewish residents to be able to observe the holidays without fear.

“Everyone gathering for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur deserves to do so without worry,” Chow said.

Chow acknowledged that Jewish communities ideally should not need additional security simply to attend religious services, but said the current environment requires it. She called attacks targeting Jews “despicable” and said additional officers have been assigned to the hate-crimes unit.

The heightened police presence will continue through the weeks surrounding the High Holidays and into the Oct. 7 anniversary period. Rosh Hashanah begins Friday evening, Sept. 11, and Yom Kippur begins Sunday evening, Sept. 20, in 2026.