Abbotsford police say they are investigating the origin of violent threats circulating online, and there is no information to suggest the threats are real.
A Monday news release from the Abbotsford Police Department (APD) says it is aware of an email and social media posts claiming that acts of violence targeting various schools in the city will occur on Monday.
It said that over the weekend police responded to numerous swatting calls, which falsely claimed that violence was taking place and people were in danger.
Swatting is the practice of calling police to falsely report a serious incident, triggering a swift and significant response.
“AbbyPD is taking today’s claimed threat of violence seriously and is currently investigating the origin of the messages,” police said in the Monday news release.
“Currently, there is no information to suggest that this threat is real, and investigators believe this incident is yet another swatting attempt.”
It said police will ensure the public is informed of any new information regarding student safety.
The Abbotsford School District wrote in a Monday morning Facebook post that it is aware of the threats, and immediately contacted police.
“APD has found no evidence to suggest the threat is credible. Based on their review, we are confident that there is no known risk to our schools, students, or staff,” it said.
