Toronto 18 conspirator Zakaria Amara granted full parole after deradicalisation

Zakaria Amara, a key figure in the 2006 Toronto 18 terror scheme, received full parole after the Parole Board of Canada determined he no longer holds extremist or radical ideologies. Previously sentenced to life with a ten-year parole ineligibility period, he served time in both high- and medium-security facilities, where correctional staff noted a shift in his attitude beginning in 2014. Granted day parole in 2022 and extended several times, Amara complied with intensive supervision, including restrictions on internet, phone use and contacts with anyone linked to criminal or extremist activity.

The board highlighted his participation in counselling, a stable job, and plans to reside in his own home while continuing religious and family activities. Ongoing conditions require continued monitoring and prohibitions against associating with former co-accused or extremist groups.