Mass arrests: Over 700 Canadian protesters detained in police crackdown

mass-arrests-over-700-canadian-protesters-detained-in-police-crackdown

Over 700 students have been arrested in Canada during the latest night of rallies against tuition fee hikes and the adoption of controversial bill that is widely seen as a tool to limit freedom of speech, association and assembly.

Police in Montreal dispersed unsanctioned protests and arrested 518 demonstrators on Wednesday night. The arrests were also made in Quebec City, where some 170 were detained, and in Sherbrooke. There were no reports of injuries or casualties.

Police used kettling tactics to encircle the protesters and contain them within a small space. People reportedly threw projectiles such as fireworks and bottles at officers, forcing them to carry out extensive arrests.

Most of those detained have already been released. Some face $1,000 fines.

For over 14 weeks, Canada has been facing the most sustained student demonstration in its history. The protest on Wednesday started as a peaceful march of thousands, just like the majority of previous rallies.

In order to give the police another non-lethal means of pressure on protesters, Quebec’s legislative assembly adopted a bill that introduces enormous fines of $24,000 to $122,000 against unions and student organizations which do not stop their members from protesting. Individuals found guilty of organizing a protest now face a fine of some $34,000.

On Tuesday, the movement marked the 100th day of demonstrations against the tuition hikes of around $250 per year with a massive rally in Montreal. Over 120 people were detained following the event.

YouTube video

Source: www.rt.com

Share:

Commenting rules and guidelines

We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules:

  • Treat others with kindness and respect.
  • Stay on topic and contribute to the conversation in a meaningful way.
  • Do not use abusive or hateful language.
  • Do not spam or promote unrelated products or services.
  • Do not post any personal information or content that is illegal, obscene, or otherwise inappropriate.

We reserve the right to remove any comments that violate these rules. By commenting on our website, you agree to abide by these guidelines. Thank you for helping to create a positive and welcoming environment for all.

3 Comments

  1. The Old World Order is trying desperately to hold on their power and they use whatever means they can to do do. Here in the States they’ve fashioned the Patriot Act to coerce local police forces into Gestopo like enforcers to stymi protestors. All over the world youth is rising up against the oppressors of freedom and change. It’s inevitable that there will be clashes as the revolution for true freedom continues to blossom.

    1. For your upliftment:

      BREAKING NEWS: From Occupy Frankfurt. May 19, 2012.
      The German police took off their helmets and marched with the protest clearing the way for them.
      It’s time for Evolution
      You wont see this on CNN!

      #blockupy. Frankfurt am Main, 19. Mai 2012
      The police coming over to serve and protect the people… Blockupy Frankfurt. Police are escorting, not participating. Reports of an estimated 20,000+ protesters. Nice to see their faces…. and their humanity coming through…
      VIDEO:

Leave a Reply to Jaya Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *