Law enforcement reviewing security as trucker convoy nears Ottawa

As a convoy of hundreds of trucks makes its way to Ottawa to protest cross-border vaccine mandates, law enforcement in our nation’s capital say they are keeping a close eye on the situation.

The polarizing convoy has attracted extremist rhetoric online, with some suggesting overthrowing the government. In some instances, people have said they want this event to turn into Canada’s “January 6th” — referencing the storming of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. a year ago.

Jessica Davis with Insight Threat Intelligence tells CityNews law enforcement would be monitoring online chatter.

“Potentially monitoring individuals who are aspiring to maybe escalate a protest outside of the peaceful realm,” she explained.

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Davis notes the agencies have emergency plans in place.

“Preparations have to be made to make sure that there’s emergency exit routes available so if there’s a fire or some sort of other incident that occurs in downtown Ottawa that people can safely evacuate,” she added.

The law enforcement agencies responsible for protection in and around Parliament Hill are all saying roughly the same thing, adding they’re working together.

The Parliamentary Protective Service, which protects the parliamentary precinct, says it’s closely monitoring the protest, and will adjust its security posture as required.

The Ottawa Police Service confirms it is aware of the demonstration, but would not discuss operational strategy.

Meanwhile, the RCMP National Division, which is responsible for protecting dignitaries like the prime minister and governor general, says it’s constantly reviewing security measures based on risk assessments, adding it’s always ready to adapt.

Organizer tries to distance event from violent rhetoric

The lead organizer of the convoy took to Facebook to distance the event from any of this talk, telling supporters if they see anyone being aggressive or inciting violence, they need to report it to police.

“Nobody in this convoy will be inciting violence or uttering threats,” said Tamara Lich. “That is not what we are here to do.”

The convoy, which left B.C. on Sunday, arrived in Ontario Tuesday night, with many drivers joining the long line of vehicles along the way. The group plans to rally in Ottawa on Saturday to speak out against recent vaccine mandates brought in by both the Canadian and U.S. governments.

The federal government’s new rules means truck drivers need to be fully vaccinated to avoid a two-week quarantine and pre-arrival molecular test for COVID-19 before crossing into Canada.

Drivers are arguing the mandate violates their freedom, prevents them from making a living, and slows down the delivery of food and other products to parts of Canada.