There has been a recent string of muggings and attacks in Montreal’s Saint-Henri neighbourhood.
To combat the fear, a local gym is getting involved to try and help residents feel safer.
Joshua Harley is the co-owner of Tritton Performance/Harley Muay Thai in Saint-Henri.
He teaches Muay Thai: a form of martial art.
READ MORE: Saint-Henri restaurant once again the target of vandals
Among other things, the combat sport practices kicking and punching, which Harley says are good techniques for self-defense.
He told Global News he heard about the recent string of muggings in the borough and wanted to help — the only way he knew how.
“We’re offering 10 days of free classes to anyone who’s interested in Montreal or the surrounding areas,” he said.
Though Harley admits violence should be a last resort, he says it’s a good tool to know.
“It’ll give people some confidence, at least if nothing else, help them sleep easier at night,” said Harley.
Last December, police arrested three suspects in connection with muggings that occurred in Saint-Henri, along Notre-Dame Street.
READ MORE: 3 suspects arrested in connection with Saint-Henri muggings
During that time, police stepped up patrols around public areas, including the Metro stations.
Saint-Henri resident Samir Tighzert, who trains at the gym, told Global News it’s concerning that almost a year later, these attacks are still happening.
“I’m working downtown, taking the Metro, so I pay a bit more attention now, looking what’s happening when I get out of the Metro, especially at night,” he said.
READ MORE: Anti-gentrification protesters target Saint-Henri shop
Though the recent string of attacks has put some residents on edge, city officials insist, compared to last year, crime in the borough has actually decreased.
“It seems calmer this year — according to police stats it’s calmer,” said Montreal city councillor Craig Sauvé.
“We won’t be happy until there’s zero crime.”
Comments