Ottawa Police are currently engaged in a standoff with an individual barricaded inside the East Block on Parliament Hill. Authorities responded to the situation early Saturday afternoon, and as of now, there have been no reports of injuries.
The area has been evacuated as a precautionary measure, and police are continuing to deal with the individual inside the building. The East Block, which houses offices for Members of Parliament and the Parliamentary Library, has been under lockdown since the incident was reported.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
The lockdown was officially declared by the Parliamentary Protective Service (PPS), which is responsible for securing the parliamentary precinct. In an official communication sent to staffers, the PPS instructed everyone within the building at 111 Wellington Street to seek shelter immediately.
Staff were advised to move into the nearest room, lock all doors, and stay hidden until further notice. The lockdown, although alarming, has been managed with a focus on safety and securing the perimeter.
Ottawa Police, alongside the PPS, have cordoned off the area, and surrounding streets have been cleared to ensure that no one is within the danger zone. Authorities are asking the public to avoid the area and refrain from speculating or sharing unverified information that could contribute to confusion or panic.
Law enforcement officials have yet to release specific details about the identity of the individual involved or the circumstances surrounding the barricade situation.
However, there is no indication at this time that the incident is related to any form of terrorism or larger coordinated attack. The Ottawa Police have stated that they are taking all necessary precautions to resolve the situation peacefully and safely.
In addition to the lockdown, emergency response teams, including tactical units and crisis negotiators, are on-site and actively working to bring the situation to a resolution. Local hospitals have been put on alert, and additional first responders are on standby should they be needed.
The situation is ongoing, and Ottawa Police continue to urge the public to remain calm and stay informed through official channels. While the lockdown is in place, there are no immediate reports of casualties or injuries related to the incident.
The focus remains on ensuring the safety of everyone involved, including staff members inside the East Block, the surrounding public, and law enforcement personnel.
As of now, further updates will be provided by Ottawa Police and the Parliamentary Protective Service as the situation evolves. Local authorities are working closely with federal agencies to ensure that any further threats are mitigated and that the peace is swiftly restored to Parliament Hill.
This incident has raised concerns regarding security on Parliament Hill, an area that is a frequent target for protests and political demonstrations. While the details of this specific event remain under investigation, it is a reminder of the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining safety in high-profile government buildings.
The lockdown and subsequent barricade situation have brought heightened attention to the importance of safety protocols in sensitive areas such as Parliament Hill. Authorities are continuing to investigate the full scope of the situation and are asking for the public’s cooperation and patience as they work toward resolving the standoff.