Canada: Police close roads in Toronto, Ontario, as rival groups of demonstrators gather in vicinity of Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel Aug. 6

Event

Authorities have closed multiple streets in downtown Toronto as of Aug. 6 as rival groups of demonstrators have assembled in the vicinity of the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel. The opposing groups have reportedly gathered in the area to denounce and express support for the Eritrean government amid a Festival Eritrea cultural event slated to run at the hotel from 19:00 Aug. 6 to 01:00 Aug. 7. Police have deployed to the scene and reported that Queen Street West is blocked from Bay Street to University Avenue and that University Avenue is blocked from Dundas Street West to Adelaide Street West. Authorities have also closed additional side streets in the area to traffic and advised individuals to consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the road closures.

Heightened security and transport disruptions will likely impact the area over the coming hours. Clashes between police and activists, as well as between groups of opposing demonstrators, cannot be ruled out.

Context

Clashes between festival participants and protesters at a related Festival Eritrea event at Earlscourt Park in Toronto on Aug. 5 resulted in the hospitalization of at least nine people. City of Toronto officials revoked the festival's permit to hold related events at the park following the violence; however, authorities have permitted the Aug. 6-7 event at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel to be held as scheduled.

Advice

Avoid the demonstrations due to the potential for violence. Depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent the affected area and any related disruptions. Heed all official transport and security advisories.