More police sent to Windsor, Ont., as border blockade continues

Windsor police say more policing resources are being deployed to Windsor, Ont., in the area of the Ambassador Bridge, where protests against COVID-19 public health restrictions havebeen snarlingcross-border traffic since Monday.

Additional resources have been brought infrom other jurisdictions "for the purpose of helping support a peaceful resolution to the current demonstration," police said on Twitter at around 8 p.m. ET Thursday.

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino said earlier on Thursday thatthe federal government will deploy more RCMP officers to the region to help local law enforcement.

"We'll continue to send resources as needed," he said.

The protest has disruptedtraffic along the crucial trucking route that connects Windsor and Detroit, prompting escalating concern overthe impact on theauto industry, which has idled some plants, and Canada-U.S. tradeoverall.

Blockade causing 'real harm,' Trudeau says

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens called the situation a "national crisis."

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he spoke with Dilkens on Thursday.

"We're committed to helping the mayor and the province get the situation under control because it is causing real harm to workers and economies on both sides of the border," Trudeausaid on Twitter.

Groups representing auto manufacturers are seeking an injunction to end the demonstrations, and the city of Windsor has been granted intervenor status in the case. Ahearing on the matter is set for noon ET on Friday.

On Wednesday, officials said Windsor policerequested100 additional officers, more vehiclesand intelligence support from the province and the federal government.

The protestshave also prompted anoffer of assistance from American officials.

PHOTOS | Scenes from border protests across Canada: