Police respond after protest heats up

Hundreds of pro and anti-Ethiopian government protestors have gathered at the Belmead Community Hall

July 21, 2013, Edmonton, Canada(CTV) — An estimated 100 people were believed to be involved in a heated protest at the Belmead Community League Hall Saturday afternoon.

Authories said about 20 police officers were called in after the situation escalated.

Media and the general public were removed to a safe distance.

Protestors called the gathering in the hall of Ethiopian government supports was illegal and they were standing up for those in their home country.

“They are speaking out you know for the right of their brothers and sisters in their home country and the illegal meeting the government agents are holding here and they are agents and messengers,” Derej Geleta explained to CTV News.

“It is a peaceful demonstration for the right of our peoples in our home country,” he added.

A confrontation was avoid as police lined up with riot gear at the back of the building, creating a safe space for those inside the building to exit into a bus.

–To Watch Video click CTV