Will never let violent extremism win: Justin Trudeau on Edmonton attack in Canada

Trudeau said in an official statement after the attack, where a terror angle is suspected to have a role.

Standing with the people of Edmonton, Trudeau said: "I am deeply concerned and outraged by this tragedy."

"We know that Canada’s strength comes from our diversity, and we will not be cowed by those who seek to divide us or promote fear. Edmonton is a strong and resilient city, and I am confident that its citizens will support one another to overcome this tragic event,” the prime minister said.

Terming the incident as another hate crime as per the initial investigation reports, the Canadian PM said: "While the investigation continues, early reports indicate that this is another example of the hate that we must remain ever vigilant against. The RCMP and the Edmonton Police Service, through the Integrated National Enforcement Team, are working closely together to bring those involved to justice."

Canadian police arrested the driver of the van who had attacked the policeman with a knife after hitting him and then fled on foot, media reported.

The police arrested the alleged driver two hours later after a chase.

Edmonton Police Service Chief Rod Knecht was quoted by BBC as saying that after information about the vehicle's registered owner was broadcast to patrol officers, a man driving a U-Haul rental van was pulled over at a checkpoint after his name on documents was said to be "very similar" to the one police were searching for.

"The U-Haul truck then immediately fled the scene, and was pursued by police officers toward downtown Edmonton," the police chief said.

He said the truck "deliberately attempted to hit pedestrians" during the police chase, media reported.

Police said an Islamic State (IS) group flag was found in one of the vehicles, according to media reports.

(Reporting by Souvik Ghosh)