OTTAWA – On May 28, 2025, the Ottawa Police arrested a total of 13 protesters during demonstrations against the CANSEC trade show, an arms expo taking place at a venue near the city’s airport. The protesters faced charges of mischief and assaulting police, highlighting the tensions surrounding the annual event that showcases military equipment and technologies.
According to police reports, the situation escalated outside the CANSEC venue where 12 protesters were apprehended. An additional individual was arrested in downtown Ottawa outside the police headquarters. The police also indicated that a man attending the trade show sustained minor injuries after being assaulted in proximity to the conference venue, raising concerns over the safety of individuals involved in or associated with the event.
In a media release, authorities revealed that some of the protesters were allegedly filling disposable water bottles with paint, suggesting a potential intention to target law enforcement officers. This indicates a level of premeditation among the demonstrators, as they sought to make a statement against the arms trade. The police estimated that nearly 100 protesters gathered for the demonstration, with some individuals moving onto the road in an attempt to block traffic, thereby disrupting the flow of vehicles and creating a tense atmosphere.
The CANSEC trade show, organized by the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, often attracts anti-war activists every year. The event serves as a platform for defense industry stakeholders and has seen similar protests in the past, including nine arrests during last year’s event. The persistent presence of these protest movements underscores a continuing dialogue about military spending and the ethical implications associated with arms sales.
The engagement between the police and protesters during the demonstrations illustrates the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing public order while respecting the rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and express their views. As the protests continued, the presence of law enforcement increased, aiming to maintain safety around the high-profile arms expo.
Overall, the events of May 28, 2025, signify the ongoing discourse surrounding military procurement and public sentiment towards the arms industry in Canada. With the rise in tensions and the recurrence of protests at events like CANSEC, stakeholders may need to consider the implications of public opposition to military exhibitions and the broader context of defense spending in the nation.
