Ottawa Police Chief resigns – RCMP and OPP take over
The RCMP and the OPP have taken over command of operations, to try to bring to an end the truckers protest that has tied up downtown Ottawa for almost four weeks.
Federal Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino says an integrated command centre has been established to allow police to restore public order.
The move comes after the abrupt resignation of Ottawa’s police chief.
Peter Sloly has come under harsh criticism for his handling of the protest, and his failure to end the occupation of much of the capital’s downtown.
Charges of conspiracy to commit murder
Four of the eleven people arrested at the Coutts border crossing in southern Alberta earlier this week are facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder.
They were arrested after an RCMP raid on three trailers in the area uncovered guns, ammunition, and body armour.
Police say the group involved had a willingness to use force against police if any attempts were made to disrupt the blockade.
The others arrested face charges of mischief and weapons possession.
The last demonstrators left the border crossing yesterday.
Travel and testing for COVID
The travel industry is rejoicing, as the federal government moves to ease COVID-19 travel restrictions.
As of February 28th, vaccinated travellers will no longer be required to have the results of a PCR test when they land.
Instead, they can use a rapid-testing kit approved by the country of their departure.
And all international airports in Canada will be open to receiving overseas flights.
Ottawa is also ending its advisory against international travel.
