THUNDER BAY — Controversial anti-mask activist Chris Saccoccia, also known as Chris Sky, says he has made it past a checkpoint on the Manitoba/Ontario border, and is en route to Thunder Bay.
Sky is leading a convoy that started in British Columbia and is making its way across the country, holding rallies in a number of cities.
Because Ontario is restricting entry into the province under its enhanced COVID-19 restrictions, OPP stopped the eastbound convoy on Monday afternoon.
However, Sky posted on social media that he was allowed through because he is a resident of Ontario.
In a Facebook video posted by a supporter, he also advised non-Ontario residents they could get through if they told police they were passing through the province on the way to Quebec.
It's not clear, however, how many members of the convoy were allowed entry. OPP said at least three vehicles were turned back.
Thunder Bay Mayor Bill Mauro issued a statement late Monday saying he is aware that a group plans to hold an event in the city on Tuesday to protest against the COVID-19 public health guidelines.
He said Police Chief Sylvie Hauth has told him she has knowledge of the event.
Mauro cautioned that any large gathering is contrary to existing provincial orders.
He said any gathering that does not adhere to orders and public health guidelines "is incredibly disrespectful to the public, the vast majority of who are adhering to guidelines."
The mayor added "any event that risks increasing the spread of the virus and prolonging the lockdown is not welcome in our city."
