Spy service pushed for Abdelrazik’s inclusion on Canadian no-fly list, court hears

Former CSIS Official Admits Spy Service Wanted Abdelrazik on No-Fly List

In a surprising revelation, a former senior Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) official has admitted that the spy service had actively sought to have Abousfian Abdelrazik placed on Canada’s no-fly list. This admission came to light during a recent court hearing in Abdelrazik’s civil lawsuit against the federal government over his detention and alleged torture in Sudan.

Abdelrazik, a Sudanese-born Canadian citizen, found himself at the center of a complex and troubling ordeal when he was arrested during a visit to Sudan in 2003 to care for his ailing mother. CSIS officers later traveled to Khartoum to question him about suspected extremist ties. Despite denying any involvement in terrorism, Abdelrazik alleges that he was subjected to torture by Sudanese authorities during his detention.

During his testimony in Federal Court, the former CSIS official, David Vigneault, struggled to recall specific details surrounding Abdelrazik’s case. Vigneault, who served as a senior CSIS official from 2006 to 2009 before becoming the director of the spy service in 2017, acknowledged the agency’s interest in placing Abdelrazik on the no-fly list.

The case has raised serious questions about the actions of CSIS and the Canadian government in relation to Abdelrazik’s detention and treatment in Sudan. The lawsuit seeks to hold the government accountable for its role in the alleged human rights violations suffered by Abdelrazik.

The ongoing legal battle underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in matters of national security and human rights. As the case continues to unfold, it serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by individuals caught in the crosshairs of international intelligence operations.

The Canadian public eagerly awaits the outcome of Abdelrazik’s lawsuit and hopes that justice will prevail for him and others who have endured similar injustices. The case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.