Hordes Of Police Show Up To Trinity Bellwoods For Homeless Encampment Protest (PHOTOS)
Police have arrested protestors.
The City of Toronto announced on Tuesday that they would enforce trespass notices that were issued at Trinity Bellwoods Park for homeless encampments earlier this month.
In the press release, the City revealed that Toronto Police would be on the scene as they attempt to relocate the estimated 20 to 25 people.
However, since the announcement, it appears that hundreds of people have gathered at the park to protest the removal of the homeless encampment.
Contrary to #humanrights @cityoftoronto is clearing Trinity Bellwoods Park of ppl living in homelessness. They've cordoned off the area, brought in approx 40 police, 100 private security personnel + deployed drones + unmarked stingray tech. They're telling observers to leave.pic.twitter.com/gPgM8Kt16n— Leilani Farha (@Leilani Farha) 1624376831
Photos on social media show swarms of residents attempting to protect the tents located at the park. One video even appears to show protesters creating a human shield around the camp.
cops everywhere. denying press access and legal observers. \n\n@ESN_TO stream.pic.twitter.com/ilgYrPgm3b— Lorraine Lam (@Lorraine Lam) 1624383104
As more protestors continue to show up at Trinity Bellwoods, it appears that police are following. Videos on social media show hordes of police making their way to the area, some even on horseback.
This is Toronto. WTF, @JohnTorypic.twitter.com/5V2HYThfjA— Carrianne Leung (@Carrianne Leung) 1624381390
In a statement to Narcity, the Toronto Police revealed that "police are present onsite to keep the peace and to ensure the safety of the encampment residents and the city employees during their engagement today."
Pepper spray and horses at the south end now.pic.twitter.com/V7QZN4YMi5— Shelter and Housing Justice Network (@Shelter and Housing Justice Network) 1624384439
"We don't disclose numbers of officers, but there is an appropriate presence given the size of the park and the activity by protesters."
Housing yes!! Evictions no!! #noencampmentevictions #ToryFencepic.twitter.com/JV9obDjHC8— Shelter and Housing Justice Network (@Shelter and Housing Justice Network) 1624387661
So far, there have been several arrests, some due to residents assaulting officers.