Threats against people and businesses are escalating in relation to the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood.
The BC RCMP has been made aware of escalating threats of violence directed towards businesses or suspected businesses associated with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) lawful warrant to search the property.
Reports of these threats began on Monday, Sept. 22 on the same day as CFIA’s first attendance at the farm to perform their duties.
Businesses from across British Columbia have been flooded with phone calls and emails with language intended to intimidate should they continue to participate in CFIA’s operation.
Some businesses have been targeted in error.
Such threats escalated indicating violence on Wednesday, Sept. 24.
A business in the Lower Mainland reported receiving threats of having their offices shot and their employees threatened with being followed and being shot at their residences.
"The RCMP fully supports peaceful, safe and lawful protest. However, these acts, as well as inciting violence against businesses and employees, go far beyond the scope of protesting an issue," the B.C. RCMP said.
"We want to emphasize that violence, threats, intimidation tactics and harassment campaigns are criminal and will not be tolerated."
Universal Ostrich is also asking supporters to refrain from making any threats.
"This is a legal and spiritual fight and we lose our message the minute we resort to threats or violence," co-owner Karen Espersen said. "Our message is louder and more powerful if we all stand up with kindness and peaceful actions."
According to RCMP, multiple investigations have been launched and are progressing with the ultimate goal of making arrests and submitting charge recommendations.
"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 police said.
"Companies have a right to conduct business with whomever they wish, just as protesters have a right to their freedom of expression and association."
While RCMP continue to receive tips and information to advance investigations, they know there are people out there who have further knowledge about individuals making these threats.
"We urge you to call your local police so that we may hold them accountable."
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or leave a message on their website at www.solvecrime.ca.
