Two men arrested and charged after Aug. 20 violent protest in Quebec City

Sep 12, 2017 | 7:45 AM

QUEBEC — Two young men arrested Tuesday in connection with an August demonstration that saw protesters clash with riot police were released later in the day on a promise to appear in court.

The men, 19 and 20, were charged with assault causing bodily harm, while the 19-year-old was also charged with armed assault.

Police in the provincial capital say two distinct groups took part in demonstrations on Aug. 20 and that a third group was involved in another protest, which was declared illegal.

The protest was broken up by the anti-riot squad and police say an investigation into alleged criminal acts is ongoing.

Several hundred people had gathered to oppose a demonstration planned by La Meute, a right-wing group that wanted to protest against immigration policies.

Some demonstrators who defined themselves as anti-fascists ended up clashing with police after blocking La Meute members in an underground parking garage for several hours.

The counter-protest was organized by anti-fascist and pro-refugee groups after at least two Quebecers were identified participating in a white supremacist rally last month in Charlottesville, Va.

The Canadian Press

by Canadian Press