17 people arrested in two B.C. protest blockades

By Castlegar Source

The week began with several altercations between protesters and police in the province.

First, was this release from Cpl. Madonna Saunderson:

"On Feb. 24, the RCMP were called to assist Canadian National (CN) Police Service after at least two dozen protesters had blockaded the CN Rail tracks west of New Hazelton. One train reportedly had a near miss collision with a male on the tracks, just prior to CN Rail being made aware of the blockade.

At the request of CN Rail to enforce their court-ordered injunction, the RCMP attended and arrested a total of 14 individuals who refused to leave CN Rail’s private property (rail tracks). They were transported to New Hazelton RCMP Detachment for processing and released shortly after 3 am with an upcoming court date, and conditions to abide by the injunction order.

A large group of protesters remained in the area throughout the evening, and blocked Highway 16. RCMP and CN Police officers, as well as the Division Liaison Team, were on site. Late into the evening, before midnight, police officers noted that four patrol cars parked across from the highway had their tires slashed. The RCMP is investigating this criminal action and will take steps to ensure that those who damage property or threaten the safety of anyone may be held accountable in a court of law.

At approximately 3:30 am, after the arrested protesters were released, the large group blockading Highway 16 cleared the road and the highway was re-opened.

We would like to remind the public that any attempts to block rail tracks is extremely dangerous and unlawful. Should they put themselves in harm’s way, protesters are not only putting their own lives at risk, they are also putting the lives of train operators, rail employees, responding police officers and members of the public at risk."

Shortly thereafter came another release, from Cpl. Jesse O'Donaghey in Chase:

"On Feb. 24, the RCMP were called to assist Canadian Pacific (CP) Police Service after at least two dozen protesters had blockaded the CP Rail tracks near Chase.

"Earlier (yesterday Feb. 25, 2020), CP Rail attended the blockade to enforce their court-ordered injunction. The RCMP were requested to assist, and three individuals were subsequently arrested for breach of the civil injunction, by allegedly refusing to leave CP Rail’s private property (rail tracks). They were transported to Chase RCMP Detachment for processing.

"The remainder of the group of protesters removed their belongings from the tracks. RCMP and CP Rail Police officers, as well as the RCMP Division Liaison Team, were on site.

"We would like to remind the public that any attempts to block rail tracks is extremely dangerous and unlawful. Should they put themselves in harm’s way, protesters are not only putting their own lives at risk, they are also putting the lives of train operators, rail employees, responding police officers and members of the public at risk."

In all, 17 people were arrested Monday.