Ottawa police start limiting access to downtown, issue new warning to convoy protesters

Police are increasing their presence at the 'Freedom Convoy' demonstration in Ottawa, with groups of officers arriving downtown and handing out new warnings to protesters to leave now.

Crews are also erecting barriers and fencing throughout the downtown core in the latest signs that police action to break up the occupation could be imminent.

Deputy Chief Steve Bell said that along with the new barriers and increased presence, police are limiting access to the downtown core.

"Only those with lawful reason to enter the core, such as residents, businesses and others with lawful reasons, will be allowed in the area," he told the city's police board Thursday. "The unlawful protesters must leave the area and will not be provided access."

Bell said downtown residents can expect to hear more "in the hours and days to come" about coming police action. Police are holding a news conference Thursday afternoon, which you can watch live on CTVNewsOttawa.ca.