Toronto police report eight arrests and 29 charges at downtown demonstrations

Toronto police say they arrested eight people and laid 29 charges after demonstrations at Nathan Phillips Square; officers reported disturbances and assaults during the event.

Toronto police say eight people were arrested and 29 charges were laid after demonstrations on Saturday at Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto. Dozens attended an anti-immigration rally and a counter-protest, and several councillors and community groups had spoken out ahead of the gatherings. Police reported they provided direction to try to keep the peace but that disturbances and assaults occurred, including attacks on officers. The Toronto Police Association described the scene as volatile. Key details: - Police report eight arrests and 29 charges following demonstrations at Queen Street W. and Bay Street (Nathan Phillips Square). - Attendance was estimated at about 200 to 300 people and involved an anti-immigration rally and a counter-protest. - Those charged are reported to be aged 23 to 50; two non-Toronto residents are scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre and six Toronto residents are set to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice. - Reported charges include assault, offences involving weapons, theft and mischief. - Officials said investigations are ongoing and that officers were assaulted while trying to manage the demonstrations. Summary: Toronto police reported arrests and multiple charges after the downtown demonstrations, and several people are scheduled to appear in court in the coming days. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing and further legal proceedings are expected.