A resident at a encampment in Cobourg’s west end was taken into custody on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
The encampment has been located on a island along Cobourg Creek (between University Avenue West and north of King Street) for several months with garbage littering the area.
A Notice to Vacate from the Municipality of Cobourg was located amongst the debris.
The notice stated the occupant had until September 1 to clean the area and leave the premises.
On Wednesday morning, two Municipal by-law officers, along with seven Works Department staff attempted to enter the area, but police were called a short time later.
Before police arrived, the occupant put two large knives in a satchel he was carrying.
Three police officers arrived, with one going on the island and speaking to the person before he was taken away in handcuffs.
Several knives, including large kitchen knives and at least one hunting knife were recovered from the scene.
Two propane tanks, and a lawnmower were also recovered.
In total, 10 Cobourg employees dealt with the situation for several hours.
Today’s Northumberland has reached out to the municipality and police for comment on the incident.