A protest that blocked the Patricia Bay Highway in both directions on Sunday could lead to criminal charges.
Saanich police said the protesters — who signalled their support for the Wet’suwet’en people from northern B.C. and the fight against fossil fuels — created a safety risk for themselves and others, and that the department had no prior knowledge that the event was going to take place.
“The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms affords everyone the right to peaceful, safe and lawful assemblies,” Const. Markus Anastasiades said in a statement. “While the group was peaceful, their actions were neither safe nor lawful.”
No arrests have been made, but the Major Crime Unit is carrying out a criminal investigation that could result in charges being recommended to Crown counsel.
The protest, held in support of Wet’suwet’en action against the Coastal GasLink pipeline in northern B.C., had a “significant” impact on the community, police said.
Highway 17 was blocked for several hours between Haliburton and Sayward roads. Hundreds of vehicles were backed up and idling during the protest, which also targeted the use of fossil fuels.
Sunday’s protest followed a “funeral for the future” held Saturday in downtown Victoria and another march in support of the Wet’suwet’en blockade on Friday.
Saanich police are asking anyone who has video of or information on Sunday’s protest to call them at 250-475-4321, or send an email to Det. Leanne Rowan at [email protected].
