Montreal police arrest 15, disperse protesters at McGill administration building [Video]

McGill University says a protest on Thursday that ended with 15 people arrested was a “troubling” event in a series of escalating incidents since pro-Palestinian demonstrators set up an encampment on campus more than a month ago.

In a statement to media on Friday, the university says protesters occupied the main administration building, blockaded several doors, damaged furniture and yelled threats, forcing some staff to shelter in place.

McGill says it supports the right to freedom of expression within the limits of the law but condemns “the use of intimidating, aggressive, harassing or illegal tactics such as those seen yesterday.”

Police say 13 people were arrested for breaking and entering and two people were arrested for obstructing police work, after officers in riot gear used chemical irritants to forcefully disperse the crowd.

In response to the war between Israel and Hamas, Pro-Palestinian protesters set up tents on McGill’s lower field in late April, demanding …