Burnaby RCMP is warning it won’t tolerate pipeline protesters obstructing or injuring officers after another Mountie was hurt near Kinder Morgan’s Burnaby Mountain tank farm yesterday.
Officers were called to the 8000 block of Shellmont Street at about 6 p.m. for reports a man was interfering with “City of Burnaby infrastructure” in the area, says an RCMP press release.
Upon arrival, officers found a man who had allegedly removed a survey marker.
Police went to arrest the 41-year-old for mischief but he resisted, police say, and a number of demonstrators from nearby Camp Cloud then rushed in and obstructed the arresting officer, allowing the suspect to flee.
“The police officer then proceeded to chase the male,” stated the release. “The police officer was in turn pursued by a number of demonstrators from the camp, one of whom allegedly pushed the police officer, causing the police officer to injure his knee.”
The Mountie, who sustained a minor injury, managed to chase down the suspect and arrest him for mischief and resisting arrest.
The RCMP is now investigating the circumstances of the incident and considering charges for a number of other demonstrators who intervened in the initial arrest.
This is the second time police have been hurt in interactions with protesters, Burnaby RCMP says.
During arrests on March 19, one officer suffered a head injury after being kicked in the head, one officer suffered a knee injury and another officer sustained a hand injury.
“Obstructing police officers and injuring them in the course of their duties is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Burnaby RCMP Supt. Chuck McDonald stated in the press release.
McDonald said local Mounties have been “consummate professionals,” facilitating lawful, peaceful and safe protests by thousands of people.
He said Burnaby RCMP will continue to maintain a presence in the 8000 block of Shellmont Street to ensure demonstrations can continue to be carried out in a safe manner.
