In Edgewood, B.C., RCMP reported the arrest and subsequent release of an individual linked to a protest camp at Universal Ostrich Farms over an alleged arson and assault at a nearby property. The incident occurred when officers, accompanied by members of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), enforced warrants related to the planned culling of over 300 ostriches infected with avian flu last December.
Universal Ostrich Farms, situated about 100 kilometers east of Kelowna, has been contesting the cull order in court, garnering significant support from individuals who perceive the order as government overreach. This support includes participants from movements like the Freedom Convoy.
Katie Pasitney, the farm’s spokesperson, has consistently emphasized peaceful protest through Facebook videos, disavowing violence. Despite mostly peaceful demonstrations, reports of threats targeting neighbors and businesses supporting the cull have surfaced.
The arrested suspect, associated with the protest camp, was apprehended without resistance and released under specific conditions, including staying away from the property and avoiding contact with the victim.
Pasitney denounced the reported assault and arson in a video, expressing concern over threats to children and families. She distanced the farm from the violence and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for such behavior.
Amid escalating tensions, the RCMP is investigating incidents such as hay bales surrounding the ostrich enclosure being set ablaze and two ostriches allegedly shot and killed. Supporters disavowed the violence, claiming the perpetrators do not represent them.
CFIA’s oversight of the farm has been met with criticism, with Pasitney accusing the agency of mishandling the ostriches. CFIA refuted these claims, asserting proper care for the birds and responding to pre-existing injuries among the flock.
As the situation unfolds, concerns persist regarding the welfare of the ostriches, with tensions rising both on-site and within the online discourse surrounding efforts to save the birds.
