Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland defended her government's decision on Friday to invoke the emergency powers currently used to clear downtown Ottawa of right-wing protesters, saying that Canada's economy and democracy are under threat.

She said, at a press conference on Friday: "Liberal democracy must be ready to defend itself," as the police continued to arrest protesters demanding the cancellation of all health measures related to the pandemic, with some even calling for the government to be overthrown, who have shut down the Canadian capital for nearly three weeks.

The federal government invoked the Emergency Act earlier this week for the first time in the history of the legislation. It introduced new measures prohibiting public gatherings that disrupt the movement of people, goods, and trade, or that support "the threat or use of serious violence against persons or property."

In a dramatic show of police force, a line of police officers—some carrying large firearms—moved along Rideau Street, pushing protesters westward and making arrests along the way. Police detained 21 people and towed 21 vehicles.

Officers smashed a truck window and arrested its occupant after he locked himself inside.

Armored tactical vehicles were seen moving along Rideau Street—the main artery in downtown—with a group of officers on board nearby.

At the press conference, Freeland said: "When this crisis ends, we will all need to work hard to heal our country." "But today, our economy and democracy face a serious threat from foreign financing. This unlawful blockade and occupation cannot be allowed to usurp the authority of democratically elected governments."

Since Wednesday, police have distributed leaflets to truck drivers warning them not to go or face criminal charges.

Ottawa Police had announced in a post on Twitter after 8 a.m. that their presence was intensified on Nicholas Street in the heart of the federal capital and advised protesters to leave immediately.

The police tweet said, "Some protesters are surrendering and being arrested." Police asked protesters to "maintain peace and respect the law." The police operation involves several sectors of Ottawa. Due to this operation, today's parliamentary session on summons to Justin Trudeau's government for the Emergency Measures Act was canceled. These discussions had started on Thursday morning.

The opposition Conservative Party faces accusations from leaders of other political parties in parliament of supporting right-wing protesters and endorsing their movements, which political analysts describe as not only aimed at canceling pandemic health orders but also extending to overthrowing the government through creating chaos in the capital and acts of sabotage.