ALBERTA RCMP announced on Monday that they recently became aware of a small organized group within the larger Coutts protest that had access to a cache of firearms with a large quantity of ammunition.
The group was said to have a willingness to use force against the police if any attempts were made to disrupt the blockade. This resulted in an immediate and complex investigation to determine the extent of the threat and criminal organization.
As a result of this investigation, Alberta RCMP executed a search warrant during the early hours of February 14 on three trailers associated to this criminal organization. This resulted in the arrest and detainment of 11 individuals.
As result of these search warrants, the following was seized:
- 13Â long guns
- handguns
- multiple sets of body armour
- a machete
- a large quantity of ammunition
- high capacity magazines
In one incident, a large farm tractor and a semi truck, both involved in the blockade, attempted to ram a police vehicle. The police officer was able to reposition and avoid the collision. RCMP officers followed the suspects to a location where the protesters were gathered. The driver of the tractor was identified and police are actively working to locate him so he can be taken into custody. Alberta RCMP have seized the farm tractor and semi truck involved in this incident.
Alberta RCMP said they want to emphasize that their primary goal throughout this event has been and will continue to be the safety of the public as well as their officers.
Alberta RCMP said they will resume efforts to end the illegal blockade which has prevented access to the Coutts border. They said they encourage all participants who are involved in this illegal action to leave immediately or relocate to the designated site for the legal protest.
