A Friday evening rally is support of Palestinians in Gaza escalated into heated confrontations when pro-Israeli demonstrators appeared at the protest along Macleod Trail, near city hall. Now, members of the Calgary Police Service are investigating a number of assault allegations connected to the incident.
Shortly after 6:00 p.m. Friday, officers responded to the intersection of Macleod Trail and Stephen Ave. to ensure the public safety of the members of the two groups during the demonstration, as well as members of the public without affiliation to the protests.
Recordings from the rally show protest signs ripped from the hands of demonstrators and shredded, flags stomped on the ground, shouting matches and physical confrontations. During the brief clashes, members of the rally appealed for the offenders to regain composure and resume the peaceful protest.
A section of Macleod Trail between 7 Ave. and 9 Ave. S.E. was closed to traffic during the rally.
As of Saturday afternoon, police have not laid any charges in connection to the demonstration but continue to investigate allegations of violence.
Any victim of assault is encouraged to contact the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234.
