Arrests Of Trucks In Canada As Police Warn Of "Volatile" Protests

After nearly two weeks of anti-vaccine mandate protests spearheaded by truckers, Ottawa police have described the situation as "volatile" and "determined."

After protestors blocked the city center with trucks and cars, Ottawa has declared a state of emergency.

Thousands of litres of petrol have been seized by police in recent days.

According to authorities, up to 25% of the vehicles contain youngsters who may be at risk during operations.

The so-called Freedom Convoy began on January 9 in western Canada, with truckers protesting a mandate requiring them to get vaccinated against Covid-19 in order to cross the US-Canada border. The protests have evolved to include dissatisfaction with Covid's limits as well as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government in general.

Despite the fact that the march has been generally peaceful, authorities have raised alarm about far-right extremist language among the demonstrators. Some danced on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial, despite reports of racial and homophobic insults.

In connection with the protests, around 80 criminal investigations have been started, including for alleged hate crimes and property damage. A total of two dozen persons have been detained.

While attempting to seize fuel from a protest truck, one cop was allegedly assaulted.

Steve Bell, the deputy police chief, told to the press on Tuesday: "Our advice to the protestors is still the same: don't show up. There will be repercussions if you do so."

He said authorities discovered over 100 trucks with children inside and contacted the Children's Aid Society to express their concerns about the convoy's loudness, pollution, and hygiene.

Canada's busiest border crossing, the Ambassador Bridge, which is located 756 kilometers (469 miles) south of Ottawa, was partially reopened on Tuesday after protesters brought traffic to a halt.