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Death threats aimed at Trans Mountain pipeline protesters in Burnaby

Elders of the Tsleil-Waututh commissioned the construction of this “watch house” in March outside the Trans Mountain terminal in Burnaby, built on the path of Kinder Morgan’s pipeline expansion.

 Elders of the Tsleil-Waututh commissioned the construction of this Elders of the Tsleil-Waututh commissioned the construction of this “watch house” in March outside the Trans Mountain terminal in Burnaby, built on the path of Kinder Morgan’s pipeline expansion. Photograph By JENNIFER GAUTHIER

Hostility appears to be growing toward those staying at the camps outside the Trans Mountain terminal on Burnaby Mountain.

The Burnaby RCMP is following up with a man after he allegedly issued death threats against occupants of the Indigenous watch house east of the tank farm in April, the NOW has learned.

The RCMP received a report April 11 about a man making derogatory comments and verbal threats toward occupants of the “watch house” – the structure built by members of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation east of Trans Mountain’s property during the protest March 17 – and began investigating the allegations immediately, according to an email statement from the RCMP.

A male suspect was identified and has since issued an apology to the group. No charges are being filed.

Over the weekend, occupants of Camp Cloud also reported their structures were vandalized, with intimidating messages in black spray-paint popping up overnight Friday, telling the group to “go home,” “f*** off” and “protesters not welcome.”

In response to a question about escalating action against protesters, Burnaby RCMP said they will respond as necessary.

“The RCMP will take appropriate action in response to criminal offences, federal law violations and provincial regulatory offences, within the usual limits of police discretion,” said Cpl. Daniela Panesar in an email statement sent to the NOW.

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