ON Monday, just after 8 a.m., Burnaby RCMP frontline officers responded to multiple reports of more than a dozen people blocking westbound traffic at Grandview Highway and Boundary Road.

When police arrived, the majority of demonstrators left the area; however, two people remained. One man glued his hand to the road, and another man sat atop a tall ladder blocking traffic. Both men refused to leave the area despite being given the opportunity to do so.

The Burnaby Fire Department and officers trained in high-angle rescue were called to the scene to assist, and both demonstrators were safely removed.

The two demonstrators were arrested for mischief and intimidation by blocking or obstructing a highway.

This demonstration caused significant safety concerns and affected traffic for over three hours.

“The actions of these individuals drained first responder resources and put the safety of the public in harm’s way,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj. “We respect everyone’s right to lawful, peaceful and safe protest; however, this demonstration created significant public safety concerns for the demonstrators and the travelling public.”