Worshippers at a mosque in Toronto apprehended an alleged ax-wielding guy who police said used bear spray to harm people during a dawn prayer service.

The 24-year-old guy allegedly entered the Dar Al-Tawheed Islamic center in Mississauga's suburbs and "discharged bear spray toward people inside the mosque while brandishing a hatchet" shortly before 7 a.m. on Saturday.

Justin Trudeau, Canada's prime minister, condemned the incident in a tweet, calling it "incredibly disturbing." "I vehemently denounce this act of violence – which has no place in Canada – and am thinking about the community today.

"I'd also like to commend the fortitude of those present this morning."

Nadia Hasan of the National Council of Canadian Muslims, speaking on behalf of the mosque, said the man sprayed a group of around 20 men as they were praying.

"Some of the men turned around and decided very bravely that they would not allow him to attack them," she explained. "They wrestled him to the ground and held him until the cops arrived."

The man, a resident of the area, was apprehended. The police are investigating "all possible motives" for the event, and charges are pending.

According to police, the congregation members sustained minor injuries due to the bear spray.

"Obviously, people are shaken and are recovering," Hasan remarked. "For the most part, people are still processing what happened and determining how they can ensure the security of their communities."

Meanwhile, Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated: "Such evil and hateful acts have no place in our province." We must ensure that those responsible are apprehended."