Ottawa police won’t allow repeat of convoy protest, new chief vows | 24CA News
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) will not enable a repeat of the Freedom Convoy protest that jammed the town’s downtown with hundreds of noisy vans for 3 weeks final winter, in line with its new chief.
In a letter addressed to the mayor and chair of the town’s police companies board on Monday, Eric Stubbs mentioned he and his command crew have briefed the board about the “potential” return of protesters within the new yr.
“The Ottawa Police Service will not allow for the conditions that led to the unlawful protests seen in February 2022,” Stubbs assured metropolis leaders.
“Vehicle-based protests will not be allowed to enter the downtown core or in areas of national significance and we will take appropriate action to preserve public safety within our community,” he wrote.
“There is zero tolerance for disturbances and/or criminal behaviour or for individuals who attempt to disrupt our communities with vehicles.”
Working with OPP, RCMP
James Bauder, founding father of Canada Unity, one of many teams concerned in final winter’s convoy protest, has posted a name on social media for “Freedom Convoy 2.0” in Ottawa from Feb. 17-21, 2023.
Bauder was behind a weird and in the end fruitless plan final winter to overthrow Canada’s democratically elected authorities. Other convoy organizers ultimately distanced themselves from him.
He’s additionally been concerned in earlier, much less profitable makes an attempt to disrupt the capital. Bauder, who testified final month through the Public Order Emergency Commission, calls his demonstrations “bear hugs.”
He was arrested in Ottawa in February and faces a number of expenses. His bail circumstances forestall him from returning to the capital.
Stubbs mentioned police however began planning as quickly as they grew to become conscious of a doable return, and mentioned the OPS is working with Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), RCMP and police chiefs throughout the province.
Police are in touch with protest organizers, Stubbs mentioned, “to understand their intent, ensure they are informed of our city’s expectations as it relates to lawful assembly.”
Stubbs famous the OPS has modified its method to policing demonstrations since February, and has efficiently employed new ways throughout subsequent demonstrations in downtown Ottawa.
He mentioned council and the general public shall be briefed on the scenario once more within the new yr.
