Terrorism suspect Mohamed Harkat a ‘passive actor,’ his lawyer tells judge

A lawyer for terrorism suspect Mohamed Harkat told a judge today the Algerian-born refugee is a “passive actor” who has been linked to extremists through speculation, not hard evidence.

Harkat, 56, was arrested in Ottawa in December 2002 on suspicion of being an al-Qaida sleeper agent.

He denies any involvement in terrorism.

The federal government is trying to deport the former gas-station attendant using a security certificate — a legal tool for removing non-citizens suspected of ties to extremism or espionage.

Lawyer Barbara Jackman, who represents Harkat, is appearing in Federal Court in Toronto today to challenge a 2018 federal opinion that he should not be allowed to remain in Canada.

Harkat argues he faces a risk of torture if returned to Algeria.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2024.

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