West Shore RCMP are seeking video, dashcam footage and witnesses, leading up to and throughout the protest that disrupted traffic along the Trans Canada Highway last Wednesday.
On April 20th, activist group Save Old Growth warned that they would be blocking northbound TCH lanes at West Shore Parkway in Langford starting around 3:30 p.m.
Five protesters had managed to keep the blockade in place, but when RCMP arrived on scene, all left the road, except for 33-year-old Derek Hugh Menard and 23-year-old Elizabeth Helen Stewart, both from Victoria.
The two were arrested in relation to the protest, facing intimidation and mischief charges, with Menard also facing a charge for failing to comply with undertaking conditions.
See more: Two old-growth protesters remain in custody following Wednesday’s Malahat blockade
According to police, the pair had attached themselves to a large concrete-filled metal barrel to slow down their removal process, with specialized officers called in to safely get them off the highway.
Police are now looking for video footage leading up to and throughout the protest in hopes of sourcing material pertaining to people and or vehicles that may have been involved with or assisting the protest.
In a media release, RCMP said they will be considering the seizure of offence-related property, which may include the seizure of vehicles assisting or involved in the crimes for forfeiture.
Anyone with information, video footage, or who witnessed the protest is asked to contact the West Shore RCMP at (250) 474-2264.
