Emergency declared in Canada’s capital amid escalating protests

The mayor of Canada’s capital of Ottawa has declared a state of emergency in response to more than a week of truckers’ protests against COVID restrictions

Ottawa mayor Jim Watson revealed a stark warning that the city was “completely out of control”, with demonstrators outnumbering police.

He said the protests posed a threat to the safety and security of Ottawa residents.

The truckers have immobilised the centre of Ottawa with vehicles and tents blocking roads.

The “Freedom Convoy” began as a movement against a government requirement that the truckers be vaccinated against COVID.

Speaking to Canadian radio station CFRA, Watson stated that the protesters were behaving increasingly “insensitively” by continuously “blaring horns and sirens, [setting off] fireworks and turning it into a party”.

“Clearly, we are outnumbered and we are losing this battle,” he said.

We have to get our city back.”

The mayor did not give specific details about what measures he might impose.

Police however have confirmed that they will be stepping up enforcement, including possible arrests of those seeking to aid the protesters.

A state of emergency will give the city additional powers, including access to equipment required by frontline workers and emergency services.