Vancouver police to deploy extra officers ahead of Saturday protests expected to draw 30,000 people

Iranian-Canadians gather outside the Vancouver Art Gallery on Saturday, Jan. 10.

Dozens of additional Vancouver police officers will be deployed across the downtown core this weekend as demonstrations are expected to draw tens of thousands of people.

In a news release, the Vancouver Police Department said it’s preparing for multiple rallies on Saturday, including a gathering expected to take place near David Lam Park in Yaletown.

Police estimate as many as 30,000 people could attend events tied to a co-ordinated Global Day of Action, focused on opposition to Iran’s government.

Officials added that the rally in Yaletown is one of five separate demonstrations planned throughout the downtown area.

Police said they have been working with protest organizers in an effort to minimize disruptions, but are warning residents and people travelling downtown to anticipate some delays caused by crowds and road closures.

Officers will be assigned to the area using a range of patrol methods—including bicycles, motorcycles, vehicles and foot patrols—with the goal of managing crowds and helping facilitate peaceful demonstrations, police said.

Last month, protests in downtown Vancouver drew record crowds, with police estimating about 17,000 people attended 18 demonstrations throughout one weekend—nearly double what had been anticipated.