By Trend News Line 2024-04-10 21:05:56.
Sgt. Greg Tulloch Describes Tenuous Relationship with Protesters
An RCMP officer has detailed the challenging relationship police faced with protesters during efforts to end the COVID-era border blockade in Coutts, Alta. Sgt. Greg Tulloch continued his testimony at the trial of Alex Van Herk, Marco Van Huigenbos, and Gerhard (George) Janzen, who are facing mischief charges over $5,000.
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Protest Leaders Spearhead Traffic Blockade
Crown prosecutors have alleged that the trio led the protest that disrupted cross-border traffic between Alberta and Montana for two weeks in early 2022 to protest pandemic restrictions. Tulloch mentioned that efforts were made to persuade the truckers to leave when he first arrived on Feb. 1. He identified the three accused as leaders, with most interactions involving Van Huigenbos.
Tensions Rise as Protesters Threaten Police
Van Huigenbos warned police that logging trucks were determined to pass the checkpoint and join the protest in Coutts, stating that things could escalate quickly if their request was denied. Tulloch expressed concerns about safety and the potential for outside actors to disrupt the protest’s message through violence or other means.
Police Allow Trucks Through Despite Risks
Although police agreed to let the trucks enter, Van Huigenbos requested a delay due to the highway closure. Tulloch recounted a heated encounter with a semi-truck upon entering Coutts, where Van Huigenbos and Janzen intervened to defuse the situation.
Escalation of Protest Activity
As the situation worsened, Tulloch noted a significant increase in the number of protesters, some donning camouflage and vests, giving a military-like atmosphere to the area around Smuggler’s Saloon. Concerns grew when two large excavators were placed near the highway, prompting police intervention to prevent any potential disruptions.
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Communication Breakdown with Protest Leaders
Tulloch struggled to reach Van Huigenbos to address the excavator issue, leading police to disable the machines themselves. Despite Van Huigenbos’ concerns about damage to the equipment, police took action to ensure the safety of the area.
In conclusion, the testimony provided by Sgt. Greg Tulloch sheds light on the challenges faced by police in managing the border blockade protest in Coutts. The delicate balance between maintaining order and respecting the protesters’ rights proved to be a complex and ongoing struggle for law enforcement officials..
– Mischief trial Alberta border protesters
– Mounties convince border protesters quit.
