Police in riot gear have broken up one of the violent anti-Olympic protests taking place in downtown Vancouver that has seen windows smashed and vehicles vandalized.
The protest march of masked demonstrators caused police to close the Lions Gate bridge.
The protesters have moved on an are assembling in another area of the downtown core.
Some 200 anti-Olympic protesters, staging what they have dubbed the "heart attack march," are kicking cars and smashing windows as they take their protest through downtown Vancouver, police report.
Police spokeswoman Jana McGuinness, said the protesters threw objects at police, spray painted cars and transit buses and intimidated pedestrians as they proceeded down Georgia street past Granville.
McGuinness said the Vancouver police crowd control unit and 2010 Integrated Security Unit are moving in to take control of the situation.
Olympic protesters cause damage
Some 200 anti-Olympic protesters, staging what they have dubbed the "heart attack march," are kicking cars and smashing windows as they take their protest through downtown Vancouver, police report.
Police spokeswoman Jana McGuinness, said the protesters threw objects at police, spray painted cars and transit buses and intimidated pedestrians as they proceeded down Georgia street past Granville.
McGuinness said the Vancouver police crowd control unit and 2010 Integrated Security Unit are moving in to take control of the situation.
Saturday’s protests follow a standoff Friday night between demonstrators and police.
Two officers were injured as protesters hurled debris at police.
After Friday’s opening ceremony was complete, both Mayor Gregor Robertson and Premier Gordon Campbell admonished protesters for escalating beyond a peaceful demonstration.
"I’m really disappointed there was violence and disrespect shown by protesters. I think all in Vancouver expect there will be peaceful protests and a few individuals crossed that line," said Robertson.
"I’m very proud of the Vancouver police department’s performance. They handled the situation very well," he added.
Campbell went further in his comments Friday night, saying while all people have a right to free speech, "there’s nothing that says we all have a right to attack."
"The protesters are trying to attract attention to themselves. The protesters are trying to frighten people," he said.
"Now is a time for celebration. Now is a time to try and lift Canada up," he added.
"And frankly, I think the protesters are self-centered and selfish and in many cases cowardly."
See video posted by protest followers below.
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