Date: Friday, March 11, 2022

File: 22-8672

Victoria, BC – Traffic disruptions are anticipated in downtown Victoria and in the area of the BC Legislature during protests this weekend. CCTV cameras will be deployed in support of our operations to ensure public safety.

The ability to protest in a safe, peaceful and lawful manner is a key Canadian right enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. While we remain neutral during protests, we ensure that public safety and people’s rights to protest safely, peacefully and lawfully are upheld. Dangerous and/or unlawful acts will be met with de-escalation and enforcement, including Criminal Code, Motor Vehicle Act and Municipal Bylaw investigations.

It is important to remember that the Victoria Inner Harbour and surrounding area is controlled airspace and drones are prohibited from operating within three nautical miles (5.6 kilometers) of an airport, or one nautical mile (1.9 kilometers) of a heliport. Transport Canada prohibits the use of drones as they poses a risk to aircraft and bystanders. Police may take enforcement action to prevent drone operation.

We have heard and understand the concerns of James Bay residents during recent protest events and will continue to work to minimize disruptions in the area. Thank you to James Bay residents for your ongoing patience.

Here is how to contact us with concerns during the protest event.

  • For crimes in progress or emergencies, please call 911.
  • For non-emergency incidents, call the non-emergency line at (250) 995-7654 and upon hearing the recording, select option 1 for the Report Desk.
  • For non-emergency traffic incidents, please use our online reporting here: https://vicpd.ca/services/report-a-crime-online/.

CCTV cameras will be temporarily deployed and monitored in public spaces in accordance with B.C. and national privacy legislation. Temporary signs are posted to ensure that those in the area are aware. If you have questions or concerns about our temporary CCTV camera deployment, please email: [email protected].

Traffic disruptions are anticipated during these protests. For the most recent updates on traffic disruptions, please visit our VicPD Twitter account #yyjtraffic posts.

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