A convoy of truckers set to descend upon Ottawa to protest mandatory vaccinations is prompting police to prepare for violence and politicians to warn against escalating rhetoric linked to the demonstration.
Ottawa police Chief Peter Sloly told a police services board meeting Wednesday that officers had been in been in contact with protest leaders who he said have been co-operative and shared their plans.
But Deputy Chief Steve Bell voiced concern about “parallel groups” that intelligence suggests will also turn up to the protest.
The police are trying to reach these groups — as well as counter-protesters — to discuss their aims. Read more: Trucker convoy organizer calls for ‘peaceful protest’ without ‘violence’ or ‘threats’ At the meeting, police disclosed they are preparing for a range of scenarios including the potential for violence.