Police have arrested 14 people at a protest by pro-Palestinian demonstrators who were blocking rail lines in Vancouver on Friday.
Cst. Tania Visintin said protesters who were blocking the Canadian National Railway lines in East Vancouver refused multiple requests to move and some “became hostile” with officers.
She said in a statement that more than three hours after police were called, 14 protesters were arrested for mischief and obstruction at 2:30 p.m.
“Unlawful protests that block vital infrastructure put people’s safety at risk,” said Visintin.
She said the police action was “to prevent a prolonged blockade” and also involved CN Police—the railway’s private police force—and Metro Vancouver Transit Police.
The protesters had earlier issued a news release showing people on the tracks, saying they were demanding sanctions against Israel over its actions in Gaza.
