Ottawa police warned the truckers protesting COVID-19 vaccine mandates to disperse or face arrest as the demonstrations continue.
REUTERS/Patrick Doyle
Ottawa police issued a stark warning for truckers involved in anti-government protests, warning them to stop clogging the streets or face arrest.
Canada's capital city has faced gridlock over the last two weeks as protesters dubbing themselves the "Freedom Convoy" have turned out to denounce COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
"The unlawful act of blocking streets in the downtown core is resulting in people being denied the lawful use, enjoyment, and operation of their property," the Ottawa Police Service said in a statement addressed to the protesters.
The statement from Ottawa police added: "It is a criminal offense to obstruct, interrupt or interfere with the lawful use, enjoyment, or operation of property."
Ottawa Police said people committing "unlawful" activity may face charges for committing a criminal offense, and could be arrested without a warrant.
"Offence-related property, including vehicles, may be seized as part of the offense. The vehicles may be detained and, following a conviction, possibly forfeited," the statement read.
The statement said, "Charges or convictions related to the unlawful activity associated with the demonstration may lead to denial in crossing the USA border."
Ottawa officials have declared a state of emergency as the protests continue. The demonstrations have inspired other right-wing protests, including truckers who blocked a vital bridge connecting the US and Canada in Detroit.
Numerous Telegram groups in the US have discussed staging similar protests and shutting down major highways in protest.
