Authorities apprehended two individuals on a British Columbia farm where the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is preparing to eliminate ostriches due to avian flu concerns. The RCMP intervened at the ostrich enclosure, where Katie Pasitney and Karen Esperson were found occupying the premises overnight. Staff Sgt. Kris Clark revealed that the individuals were uncooperative and were subsequently arrested. They are currently being processed at the RCMP command post before their release.
Sgt. Clark mentioned that the arrests were made under the Health of Animals Act, though formal charges have not been filed yet. The RCMP’s presence at the farm was at the request of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to uphold regulations, protect the property, and ensure the safety of the public and CFIA personnel during their operations.