Update #117 on police enforcement of injunction order in Fairy Creek Watershed

B.C., Lake Cowichan

2021-11-01 18:47 PDT

Police enforcement of the injunction order in the Fairy Creek Watershed area continued today, on Nov 1, with ongoing efforts to keep the Granite Mainline Forest Service Road and other corridors free from any obstructions, devices and open for industry access.

On Saturday October 30, 2021 police dismantled a camp used by protesters. Individuals were provided the opportunity to gather personal items and leave the area. Structures and materials (1150 pounds) were gathered and ultimately air lifted out of the area by RCMP Air Services.

Larger image of tent structure dismantled

Larger image of structures dismantled and removed at a protest camp

Larger image of RCMP Helicopter air lifting items out of the area

Enforcement also encountered individuals near a small obstruction that was also lit on fire and a couple contemnors were arrested for being in an active cutblock. In total 6 individuals were arrested for breaching the injunction (contempt of court). They were processed and then conditionally released in Port Renfrew.

There were no arrests on Sunday October 31, 2021 and active patrols were conducted in the area.

On Monday November 1, 2021, the RCMP assisted and support a number of individuals who wanted to leave the area with their personal belongings. They were helped and driven out of the area. Shortly before 2:00 p.m. the RCMP were advised by industry that an individual was within the cutblock and in an area that would directly place them at risk due to the falling of trees. Police attended and attempt to speak with and negotiate with the individual with no success. The area has been deemed unsafe and will continue to be monitored. No arrests took place today.

Active patrols of the corridor will also continue to ensure the roads remain clear of obstructions, as well as the road checks for motor vehicle infractions in the area.

Since enforcement began, the RCMP have arrested 1157 individuals; 110 of whom were previously arrested with a combined total of 261 times. Of the total arrested, 894 were for breaching the injunction (contempt of court), 221 were for obstruction, 21 were for mischief, 10 were for breaching their release conditions, 8 were for assaulting a police officer, 1 for counselling to resist arrest, 1 for causing a disturbance, and 1 Immigration Act.

All news releases on the Fairy Creek Watershed police enforcement issued to date can be found on the Lake Cowichan RCMP Detachment website.

Released by:

BC RCMP Communication Services
Tel: 778-290-2929
Email: bcrcmp@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
 

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