Winnipeg, MB – Police in Winnipeg say a suspect has been arrested in connection with a series of hate-related graffiti incidents that targeted homes, vehicles, and religious sites in the Crescentwood neighbourhood earlier this month.
According to the Winnipeg Police Service, investigators from the Major Crimes Division Hate Crimes Unit determined that on Thursday, January 2, 2026, a man allegedly spray-painted random and hate-related graffiti during the early morning hours across residential properties in Crescentwood. Police say garages, houses, and vehicles were damaged.
In addition to private property, hate-related symbols were also allegedly painted at several public and faith-based locations, including the entrance to Munson Park in the 400 block of Wellington Crescent, the Shaarey Zedek Synagogue in the 500 block of Wellington Crescent, and the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Community Centre and Masjid in the 700 block of Ellice Avenue.
Police say community members played a key role in the investigation by promptly reporting the incidents and providing video surveillance footage, which helped investigators quickly identify a suspect.
On Thursday, January 8, 2026, officers arrested 34-year-old Oliver Didtger Ederhof. According to police, he was charged, in consultation with Manitoba Prosecution Service, with Mischief Under $5,000/Obstruct in Enjoyment x14. Authorities emphasize the charges are allegations that have not been proven in court.
Police say the accused was released on an undertaking and is expected to appear in court at a later date.
The Winnipeg Police Service continues to encourage residents to report suspicious activity and incidents of hate-related crime, noting that timely community reporting remains critical in preventing further harm.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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