RCMP lay new charge against man accused of threatening U.S. Consulate in Halifax

The Halifax man accused of threatening to bomb the U.S. Consulate in the city's downtown area is facing a new charge.

Ali Assakereh, 54, was initially charged by Halifax Regional Police with uttering threats and public mischief in relation to last week’s threat that put much of the downtown under lockdown. 

He was scheduled to appear in Halifax provincial court on Wednesday for a bail hearing when the new charge was laid. 

According to a news release, RCMP have now charged Assakereh with making a threat against an internationally protected person.

Police allege Assakereh placed a propane tank and flammable liquids in his car before parking it near the consulate.

The discovery of the vehicle on Aug. 10 prompted police to call for the immediate evacuation of several downtown buildings, including the waterfront office complex where the consulate is located.

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