Ottawa Police Board Approves Up To 831 RCMP Officers To Help With 'Rolling Thunder' Convoy

The Ottawa Police Service Board has approved the appointment and reappointment of up to 831 RCMP officers ahead of the anticipated "Rolling Thunder" convoy.

The motorcycle convoy is expected to begin in Ottawa on April 29 and end on May 1.

A press release containing Interim Police Chief Steve Bell's speaking notes confirms that police are expecting "more than 500 motorcycles" and that residents can expect "increased police presence and possible traffic delays" in areas where attendees of the convoy gather.

In preparation for the rally, the Ottawa Police Service Board has approved the appointment of up to 200 RCMP officers in addition to the re-appointment of the 631 RCMP officers previously sworn in in February during the Freedom Convoy, to support Ottawa police as the "need arises."

The ability to appoint or reappoint the RCMP officers will be an option until July 4, 2022.

What are the police doing to prepare?

In preparation for the city's first convoy following the Freedom Convoy, Bell said that "city barricades, heavy equipment or police officers and police vehicles will be at various controlled access points surrounding the vehicle exclusion zone to filter lawful traffic on to those streets."

The vehicle exclusion zone will prevent "motor vehicle-based protests, rallies or events" from entering and potentially occupying Ottawa's downtown core, including areas like Parliament Hill and the National War Memorial.

However, the roads will not be closed. Residents, cyclists and local traffic not involved with the convoy will be able to pass through the access points.

Bell outlined that the enforcement strategy for the weekend will include "controlled intersections, new no-parking and no-stopping areas, road closures, vehicle towing and ticketing."

Police are also monitoring online for "open-source commentary" on the events.

The Hate Crime Unit and other investigative teams have been put into action and are "focused on gathering evidence and laying charges."

Bell also confirmed that "the displaying of symbols of hate like swastikas will result in charges."

In an official statement from Rolling Thunder posted on April 25, organizer Neil wrote, "We do not support blockades, obstruction of police performing their duties, damage to property or hate & vitriol directed to the residents of Ottawa."

What is Rolling Thunder planning?

Attendees of the event are expected to lay a wreath at the National War Memorial on April 30, followed by a rally, according to a statement previously given to Narcity from partial organizers Freedom Fighters Canada (FFC).

According to Bell, a central part of the convoy includes a motorcycle ride slated to take place on Saturday.

Bell outlined the planned route and confirmed that "officers will be there to direct traffic and ensure the participants safely and expeditiously leave the area with as little impact as possible on residents."

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.