“The Freedom Convoy” could land in Ottawa on Tuesday. This time, the city claims to have prepared for the group’s possible disruptive activities. The authorities warn that the police presence will be increased, especially in the city center.
MARTIN ALARIE / QMI AGENCY / JOURNAL DE MONTREAL
Disruptions are also to be expected on the road network, particularly on Highway 417. There is talk of possible closures of exit ramps to the city center.
The Ottawa Police Service and the City of Ottawa will work together to mitigate potential unrest in the city.
The police specify that no illegal activity, including the obstruction of a public road or the obstruction of traffic, will not be tolerated.
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A national security expert says the momentum of the “freedom convoy” is running out of steam. However, he is of the opinion that it is better for the police to be prepared as a preventive measure.
“One of the very big and difficult lessons that has been learned by the Ottawa police in particular is precisely not to underestimate any form of demonstration that could arise in Ottawa”, explains Michel Juneau-Katsuya , intelligence officer at CSIS. “This time I think they won’t be taken in.”