RCMP investigating after reporter spat on at Osoyoos border crossing protest

The Osoyoos RCMP has launched a formal investigation after a reporter was allegedly spat on during a protest at the border crossing last weekend.

Global Okanagan reporter Yasmin Gandham said in a tweet she was spat on, her appearance was scrutinized and she was called “fake news” during a protest against COVID-19 restrictions at the Osoyoos border crossing, Feb. 19.

Spitting on someone is considered assault, according to the Canadian Criminal Code.

READ MORE: Reporter spat on while covering Osoyoos protest

Police officers are currently working to identify the suspect and are asking for those in the convoy who videotaped their travels and who may have footage of the incident, or witnessed it, to reach out to the Osoyoos RCMP, said Sgt. Jason Bayda via email, with the detachment.

Weekly convoys have been held from Vernon to Osoyoos.

In recent years, increasing levels of harassment on journalists have been reported globally. Last weekend, the Canadian Association of Journalists warned reporters to be careful as they cover anti-restriction events.

In Surrey, journalists were swarmed while covering a protest and had to be escorted to their vehicle by the RCMP. The Surrey RCMP is investigating several incidents.

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