Demonstrations continue more than 24 hours after a court injunction was granted to clear protesters from blocking traffic to the Ambassador Bridge following an Ontario Superior Court of Justice hearing.
Nearly 12 hours later and the #AmbassadorBridgeBlockade remains intact. #sxont pic.twitter.com/I7XpwK0iFT
— Windsor News Today (@WindsorTodayca) February 12, 2022
The blockade created by protestors calling themselves the “Freedom Convoy” has shut down much of the trade between Canada and the U.S. for almost a week.
The demonstration has continued in two locations on Huron Church Road, though police have increased in both number and force since Friday night.
Windsor Police, Ontario Provincial Police, RCMP, and contingents from other municipal police forces began the process of removing protesters Saturday morning.
The Windsor Police & its policing partners have commenced enforcement at and near the Ambassador Bridge. We urge all demonstrators to act lawfully & peacefully. Commuters are still being asked to avoid the areas affected by the demonstrations at this time.
— Windsor Police (@WindsorPolice) February 12, 2022
Two lanes were opened up, early on Saturday, but the bridge has remained impassable.
Despite media reports, the area of the Ambassador Bridge remains blocked and we advise motorists to avoid the area. Negotiations remain ongoing with the goal of a peaceful resolution.
— Windsor Police (@WindsorPolice) February 11, 2022
WindsorNewsToday.Ca reporter Adelle Loiselle was on the scene of the protest Saturday morning.
Around 9:30 a.m. police enforcement at and near the Ambassador Bridge continued with protestors in vehicles beginning to leave the area.
While vehicles blockading the bridge began to leave a large crowd of people remained in the area.
Around 10 a.m. police started to move in on protesters who remained in the area.
The following video does contain some profanity that may offend some viewers.
Police began to tow and ticket any vehicle parked in the protest area early Saturday evening.
Active enforcement in relation to parking in the area of the protest is commencing. Vehicles are being ticketed and towed.
— Windsor Police (@WindsorPolice) February 12, 2022
According to multiple sources, protestors are now predominantly on foot and remain in a standoff with police.
It’s also been reported that police have erected a barrier behind their line and with fencing on one side of the roadway and buildings on the other side, protestors can only leave the area in one direction.
Windsor police say no arrests have been made so far.
WPS along with policing partners continue to engage with demonstrators for the purpose of enforcement. No arrests at this time. We appreciate the cooperation of the demonstrators at this time and we will continue to focus on resolving the demonstration peacefully. Avoid area!
— Windsor Police (@WindsorPolice) February 12, 2022
More to come
