Peel Regional Police’s Hate Crime Unit has arrested and charged a 29-year-old woman in connection with hate-related graffiti discovered in Mississauga last month.
On 22 September 2025, at around 9:26 a.m., police received reports of vandalism to a telecommunications utility box and several items in a nearby playground in the Webb Drive and Grand Park Drive area.
The graffiti contained derogatory remarks directed at the Indian communities.
Following an investigation, police arrested Freda Looker-Rilloraza, of Mississauga, and charged her with mischief over $5,000. She was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.
Earlier, The Australia Today reported that local residents and community groups had raised alarm after hateful graffiti reading “Indian Rats” was discovered near a children’s park, sparking outrage and concerns about rising racism and Hinduphobia in Canada.
The Council of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) Canada called the incident “deeply disturbing” and said it reflected a broader pattern of intimidation faced by Indo-Canadians. “The hate is growing more visible, but the actions from law enforcement and lawmakers have not kept pace,” CoHNA said, urging Peel Police to treat the case as a hate-motivated crime and calling for stronger anti-hate measures at all levels of government.
An Indian immigrant who photographed the graffiti said the act shattered their faith in Canada’s reputation for inclusivity. “In just three years here, I’ve faced so many incidents of racism that I’ve lost count,” they said.
“Now this—right next to a children’s park. What did I even do to not deserve a respectful life here?”
The witness said they have contributed to Canada’s economy through taxes, rent, and local spending, adding:
“I’m still committed to contributing, but can Canada do its part? At the very least, can we adhere to basic social decency?”
CoHNA has reiterated the urgent need to recognise Hinduphobia as a distinct form of hate and called for immediate, coordinated action to prevent such incidents from becoming commonplace.
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