Kathmandu— Toronto police have arrested a 19-year-old man and a 15-year-old boy in connection with the shooting at the United States Consulate last month. The arrests come as part of an investigation into two shootings at the consulate within five months, both classified as national security incidents. Police described the suspects as 'criminals for hire' who were recruited through an encrypted messaging app and offered money to carry out violent acts.

Recruitment Through Encrypted Apps

Police believe that the suspects were recruited via an encrypted messaging app, where they were offered financial incentives to commit violent acts. Toronto Police Chief Superintendent Joe Matthews stated that investigators are seeing a trend of shootings, homicides, and arsons being commissioned through online apps, with varying amounts paid based on the crime's severity.

Details of the July Shooting

The latest shooting occurred at around 4:46am (08:46 GMT) when a white Honda Accord pulled up to the consulate and fired a single shot, striking the front of the building. Despite a marked police cruiser being stationed nearby, a brief chase ensued but was called off due to excessive speed by the suspect.

Previous Incidents

The July shooting followed an earlier attack on March 10th, which also occurred before dawn and prompted increased security measures for US and Israeli diplomatic buildings across Canada. Two men aged 18 and 19 were arrested in June as part of the investigation into the March incident.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.