VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — A Canadian man has been charged under a new anti-terrorism law for allegedly leaving the country to join Islamist fighters in Syria.

Royal Canadian Mounted Police Cpl. David Falls said Wednesday it’s the first time the legislation has been used to fight terrorism. The act criminalizes terrorist travels.

Police say 25-year-old Hasibullah Yusufzai is accused of committing an offense for the benefit of a terrorist group or being directed by or associated with such a group.

It is alleged that Yusufzai left Canada in January. Police are working with international partners to locate him.

RCMP Assistant Commissioner James Malizia says it underscores the reality that people are leaving Canada to take part in terrorist activities. It is also a growing concern in the U.S. and Europe.

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