'We'll keep doing this': B.C. group behind highway blockades vows more to come

A Metro Vancouver tunnel and a bridge were blocked by protesters during Monday's morning commute, leading to several arrests. But the group behind the demonstrations says more are being planned.

A Metro Vancouver tunnel and a bridge were blocked by protesters during Monday's morning commute, leading to several arrests. But the group behind the demonstrations says more are being planned.

Members of Save Old Growth, a group behind other traffic-disrupting protests in recent months, announced it would block the north entrance of the George Massey Tunnel Monday, halting southbound traffic.

B.C.'s Transportation Ministry confirmed the tunnel was blocked at about 7:15 a.m., saying drivers should "expect heavy delays and congestion."

Richmond RCMP said three people were sitting on Highway 99 and one person was "perched on a platform ladder" when officers arrived. All four were arrested, and one person was found to be breaching conditions from a prior protest, Mounties said.

"We respect the rights of individuals for lawful, peaceful and safe protests, however when blocking a major highway is neitherlawful or safe, the police need to mitigate the circumstances. Police are mandated to assuring public safety and the safety of everyone including the protestors," Insp. Mark Baxter said in a news release.

Members of the group also blocked traffic on the Second Narrows Bridge Monday morning. At about 7:30 a.m., police were spotted smashing car windows and removing protesters from the vehicle and in the area.Five people were eventually arrested. Police said four vehicles were seized as well.

"Unlawful protests that clog vital pieces of infrastructure put peoples’ safety at risk," Sgt. Steve Addison said in a news release. "While we support everyone’s right to lawfully assemble and peacefully express their views, the Vancouver Police Department will continue to work proactively to prevent illegal protests and allow people to safely move around the region."