Toronto authorities have confirmed two arrests stemming from the Global Day of Action rally held on February 14, 2026. While the event saw nearly 350,000 peaceful demonstrators gather along Yonge Street, police took action against two individuals for separate criminal activities.
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On Friday, February 13, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) Intelligence Services and Emergency Task Force arrested Michael David Holland, 56, of Burlington.
- The Incident: Investigators allege Holland posted online threats to bring a firearm to the rally with the intent to harm attendees and disrupt the gathering.
- Charges: He has been charged with Uttering Threats (Death or Bodily Harm).
Rally-Day Assault: Hate-Motivated Crime
A second incident occurred during the march near Yonge Street and Homewood Avenue, leading to the arrest of Seyed Vorudi, 26, of Toronto.
- The Incident: Police report that Vorudi, wearing a balaclava, approached a demonstrator and directed anti-Black slurs at them before physically assaulting them.
- The Outcome: The victim sustained minor injuries. Due to the nature of the verbal abuse, the Hate Crime Unit is overseeing the prosecution.
- Charges: Vorudi faces charges of Assault and Wearing a Disguise with Intent.
Key Rally Context
The rally was a historic show of support for the “Lion and Sun Revolution,” advocating for regime change in Iran. Despite the two isolated arrests, the TPS acknowledged that the vast majority of the record-breaking crowd remained peaceful throughout the demonstration.
Note: Both individuals are currently pending court dates in Toronto to address these allegations.
