The BC RCMP are investigating a coordinated campaign of threats and intimidation targeting businesses across the province, alongside a suspicious fire, all connected to the ongoing enforcement action at the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood.
The police force announced Thursday that it has become aware of escalating criminal threats directed at businesses perceived to be assisting the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The CFIA is executing a lawful search warrant at the farm, a situation that has drawn significant protest.
According to the RCMP, the threatening behaviour began on Sept. 22, coinciding with the CFIA’s initial attendance at the property. Businesses from various regions of British Columbia have since been inundated with menacing phone calls and emails containing language intended to intimidate them should they continue to participate in the CFIA’s operation. Police note that some businesses have been targeted in error.
“The RCMP fully supports peaceful, safe and lawful protest,” stated a release from the force. “However, these acts, as well as inciting violence against businesses and employees, go far beyond the scope of protesting an issue. We want to emphasize that violence, threats, intimidation tactics and harassment campaigns are criminal and will not be tolerated.”
The situation escalated significantly on Sept. 24. A business in the Lower Mainland reported receiving explicit threats of violence, including threats that their offices would be shot and their employees would be followed to their residences and shot.
“We want to emphasize that violence, threats, intimidation tactics and harassment campaigns are criminal and will not be tolerated,” the RCMP said.
Multiple investigations underway, arrests goal
The BC RCMP confirmed that multiple investigations have been launched and are actively progressing.
“There is no online protection for those who are inciting these acts under the guise of protesting and investigators are also looking at supporters or those who are counselling or inciting others to these acts, the statement read. “Companies have a right to conduct business with whomever they wish, just as protesters have a right to their freedom of expression and association.”
Police are urging anyone with information about the individuals making these threats to come forward by contacting their local police department or, to remain anonymous, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Suspicious fire adds to Ttensions
The volatile situation at the Edgewood farm itself intensified in the early hours of Sept. 24. Shortly before 4 a.m., emergency crews were dispatched to the property after reports of a fire. Upon arrival, they discovered bales of hay fully engulfed in flames.
Fire crews contained the blaze after several hours. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation and is believed to be suspicious.
The RCMP’s presence at the farm remains ongoing, at the request of the CFIA, to ensure safety while the agency’s operation is underway.
In their statement, the RCMP sought to clarify their role, emphasizing that the CFIA is the lead agency in the dispute.
