KHAT CRACKDOWN ALARMS SOMALIS

Toronto police will investigate complaints from the city's Somali
community about a crackdown on khat, a leaf that produces a stimulant
effect when chewed.

In Canada, it is a criminal offence to possess khat, but chewing it is
acceptable in Somali society.

During a meeting yesterday, senior Toronto police officers answered
questions from about 60 members of the Somali community about search
policies and procedures.

Deputy Chief Michael Boyd said concerns were raised about officers
searching homes who didn't identify themselves, items other than khat
being seized and search warrants being signed by justices of the peace
from other areas.

The meeting was closed to the media.