Only Ottawans with a “lawful” reason for being in the downtown core will be permitted to do so amid what police are billing as a “major” ramp up in efforts to end the so-called “Freedom Convoy” blockades.

All eyes are on Canada's capital as Thursday marks Day 21 of the continued blockade and as police signal that they are preparing to end the demonstration that has paralyzed Ottawa.

“Overnight and throughout the day, residents are seeing a major increase in the number of police officers on our streets. We have begun to erect barriers and fencing throughout the downtown core,” said Steve Bell, interim chief of the Ottawa Police Service, in a statement.

“Only those with lawful reason to enter the core, such as residents, businesses and others with lawful reasons, will be allowed in the area. The unlawful protesters must leave the area and will not be provided access.”

Sean O'Shea joins us with the latest from Ottawa.

For more info, please go to https://globalnews.ca/news/8627050/ottawa-freedom-convoy-blockade-police-enforcement/

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