A Middle Eastern restaurant in Winnipeg has become the latest target of hate-motivated vandalism, an incident that comes just two days after a similar attack on a city synagogue. The community is reeling from these back-to-back acts of intolerance.
Details of the Café Vandalism
On January 5, 2026, Habibiz Café, a restaurant serving Middle Eastern cuisine located near the Polo Park area, was vandalized with a hateful message. The discovery was made in the morning, prompting an immediate response from both the business owners and local authorities. While the exact wording of the message has not been publicly disclosed by police, it is confirmed to be a clear expression of prejudice and hate.
This disturbing event follows another act of vandalism at a Winnipeg synagogue, which occurred only 48 hours prior. The proximity of these two incidents in both timing and nature has raised significant alarm among community leaders and residents, pointing to a worrying pattern of targeted attacks.
Community Reaction and Police Investigation
The owners of Habibiz Café are understandably shaken but have expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from neighbors and customers. The vandalism strikes at the heart of a local business that serves as a gathering place for people of diverse backgrounds.
Winnipeg police are investigating both incidents as potential hate crimes. Investigators are examining any possible links between the two acts of vandalism, though they have not yet confirmed a direct connection. The police are urging anyone with information or surveillance footage from the areas around Habibiz Café and the affected synagogue to come forward.
A Call for Unity and Resilience
Local politicians and community advocates have swiftly condemned the vandalism. They are calling for solidarity and emphasizing that such acts of hate do not represent the values of Winnipeg. In response, there are growing calls for increased community vigilance and support for targeted groups.
The consecutive nature of these events—first at a religious institution and then at an ethnic restaurant—has underscored concerns about rising intolerance. Community leaders are organizing meetings and support rallies to stand against hate and demonstrate that the city is united in its diversity.
As the police investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the victims, holding the perpetrators accountable, and strengthening the bonds that hold the community together in the face of adversity.
