Police make at least 70 arrests in Ottawa, accuse protesters of assaulting officers

Large groups of police officers are moving in on protesters in downtown Ottawa and making arrests, including high profile organizers Tamara Lich, Chris Barber and Pat King, during an intense clash with the demonstrators who have so far refused to leave the area.

Ottawa police say they have made 70 arrests as of Friday afternoon and towed at least 21 vehicles.

During a Friday afternoon press conference, Interim Ottawa Police Chief Steve Bell called the plan to move in on protesters “methodical” and well thought out, noting officers had control of the situation on the ground.

“We will run this operation 24 hours a day until the residents and community have their city back,” Bell said.

Between police and protesters, Bell said there was only one minor injury to an officer who was quickly treated.