Ottawa police arrest dozens during protest

OTTAWA, Ontario (KLKN) – Police arrested dozens of protesters and towed away vehicles Friday, driving many away from the capitol due to pressure and raising authorities’ hopes for an end to the protests.

This is the third week of protests against the country’s COVID-19 restrictions.

The crackdown began in the morning as hundreds of police, some with riot gear and automatic weapons, entered the protest zone and led protesters away in handcuffs.

Over 70 people – including four protest leaders – were arrested by midafternoon, mainly on mischief charges, and almost two dozen vehicles were towed.

No protesters were hurt and only one officer had a minor injury, according to interim Ottawa Police Chief Steve Bell.

“[Police] continue to push forward to take control of our streets,” Bell said. ““We will work day and night until this is completed.”