Gidimt'en checkpoint

The RCMP say five people have been arrested at two camps in the area where a disputed natural gas pipeline is under construction in northwestern British Columbia.

The RCMP say they are investigating allegations that protesters threatened security officials, set off flares and damaged vehicles at a drill site for the Coastal GasLink pipeline in northern British Columbia.

The new twist in the Coastal GasLink saga comes as pressure continues to build on those standing in solidarity with the Wet’suwet’en who have blockaded major railway lines in Canada.

Police officers sawed apart a wooden gate with the word “reconciliation” painted on it and pulled down red dresses meant to honour MMIWG. Seven people were arrested.

The conflict over the Coastal GasLink pipeline stretched into its third day Saturday. Meanwhile, the RCMP drew international condemnation for repeatedly violating freedom of the press.