Ottawa Police Say Individuals Providing Supplies to Truckers Could Be Arrested
A new statement from Ottawa police on Sunday warned people supporting the freedom convoy that they might be subject to arrest if they give supplies to truckers. "Material supplies" including gasoline were mentioned, but this could include food, clothes, or building materials.
Below is a tweet from the Ottawa police.
IMPORTANT: Anyone attempting to bring material supports (gas, etc.) to the demonstrators could be subject to arrest. Enforcement is underway. #ottawa #ottnews pic.twitter.com/tp4e5d2xe1
— Ottawa Police (@OttawaPolice) February 6, 2022
The Ottawa police have been under a large amount of pressure from citizens who feel the police are doing nothing to stop this protest. Having been on the ground for multiple days, police have been extremely pleasant and are largely in support of what truckers are doing. The police chief may not be however. His job is much more difficult as it is political.
Yesterday, city councillor Diane Deans went as far as to call this protest an insurrection.
Since the beginning, the protests happening throughout the city of Ottawa have been largely peaceful although loud and disruptive. That is of course the point. Protesters feel they have been lied to, silenced and not listened to for almost 2 years. Now, they are having their voices heard.
Many, like the mayor of Ottawa Jim Watson, are claiming that the protestors have made their point and it is time to go home. But politicians, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have only divided the nation further with their words. He has also yet to meet with anyone from the protest and has only stated he will not back down on his federal vaccine mandates.
As a result, truckers will not leave as the intention is to free all Canadians from oppressive COVID measures.
Section 2(c) of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms guarantees the right to peaceful assembly - although some are saying this protest has become more of an occupation. But what other choice do people have?
Recall, over 54% of Canadians want COVID mandates dropped entirely, yet politicians aren't listening.
Could this arrest threat be a way to make this protest seem less peaceful? Are they attempting to stoke flames? We shall see. But the vibe and feel on the street is nothing but love, community and unity. Something mainstream media is massively avoiding admitting.