Officers arrested dozens more people Saturday as protesters resumed their standoff with police as part of a ramped up crackdown on the “Freedom Convoy” demonstrations in Ottawa.
Ottawa police said they had made 47 arrests on Saturday, in addition to more than 100 on Friday. Police also said they’ve towed 53 vehicles since Friday.
A fourth straight weekend of protests began Saturday morning, granted on a much smaller scale than other demonstrations seen in past weeks, while authorities appeared to take a more aggressive stance.
Police cleared Wellington Street in front of Parliament Hill of protesters for the first time since the demonstration began on Jan. 28. As officers began moving into the downtown core on Friday, several vehicles left Wellington Street, Kent Street and other jurisdictions.
During a press conference Saturday afternoon, interim Ottawa Police Chief Steve Bell said in total, 170 arrests have been made.
However, Bell couldn’t give a time estimate as to when Ottawa residents would have their streets back.
“We are working with our partners and we will remove these protesters peacefully from your area. This operation is still moving forward. It is not over and it will take takes up more time until we have achieved our goals,” Bell said.
Ottawa police said they have collaborated with law enforcement in Gatineau to close the Chaudières Bridge that connects the two cities in an effort to “prevent an influx of protesters.” They also set up about 100 checkpoints around the downtown core to prevent anyone from entering save for those who work, live or have a “lawful reason” to be there.
Officers have used pepper spray, and Bell confirmed they now have batons and helmets for added protection. Crowds have been pushing back against police, shouting “shame,” “freedom” and “hold the line.”
Smoke has also been seen at various points during the standoff and police have accused protesters of launching gas.
“We told you to leave. We gave you time to leave. We were slow and methodical, yet you were assaultive and aggressive with officers and the horses,” the Ottawa Police Service said in a message Saturday morning to protesters.
