Citizens can be arrested if they disobey an evacuation order: Merritt RCMP

MERRITT, B.C. — Merritt residents are reminded not to enter the city while under an evacuation order.

Sgt. Josh Roda with Merritt RCMP says citizens can be arrested under the Emergency Program Act, the Criminal Code of Canada for obstruction, and under the Trespass Act depending on the specific circumstances if they disobey an evacuation order.

“Obviously, we are trying not to do this,” Roda told CFJC Today. “But are sternly warning people to stay home if they have chosen to disobey the order. Citizens that have defied the order are being encouraged to stay inside their homes, especially after dark, to help us identify the people that are out to commit crime. I can assure the public we are doing everything we can to keep this community safe, and we need their help to do this.”

The City of Merritt has been on evacuation order since Nov. 15 due to the flooding of the Coldwater River. RCMP previously told residents the community is being kept safe during evacuation.