DETROIT – Canadian officials are preparing to move against a group of truck drivers who have blocked the nation’s busiest border bridge between the U.S. and Canada in protest of the country’s Covid-19 vaccine mandate.

Blockade now in fifth day has stopped traffic over Ambassador Bridge from Detroit, Mich. to Windsor, Ontario. The Ambassador Bridge accounts for 25% between these two countries.

Doug Ford, Ontario’s Premier, declared Friday a State of Emergency in Canadian Providence. Ford stated at a news conference on Friday that authorities will issue temporary orders to fine and jail protesters who block the bridge for up to $100,000.

It is crucial for the nation, and it should not be mistaken. He said that the eyes of all people are looking at us now and they don’t see who we really are. We must draw a line together as a country, as well, both in our provinces. It is our duty to stand up for the principles that make us unique.

Ford stated that authorities will also take away commercial or personal driver’s licences from anyone who refuses to comply with Ford’s orders. He called for truckers and protestors to return home peacefully.

The protesters agreed just before Ford’s comments to open one lane of traffic that exits the bridge, CBC News reported Friday. The decision also came before an Ontario court will hear an injunction seeking to end the blockade.

According to the Associated Press, protesters also blocked the Coutts border crossing in Alberta for a week. More than 400 trucks were seen in Ottawa, Canada, during a demonstration that started late last month.

Recent protests at the Blockade have attracted the attention of White House officials. parts shortages for some companiesMost notably, automakers. General Motors, Ford Motor, Honda Motor, Toyota MotorAnd StellantisAll of the affected workers had to limit or cut production due to part shortages.

Ford’s comments came a day following the Biden administration’s request to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Thursday for his federal powers to stop the truck blockingade. Associated Press.

According to The Associated Press, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas was reported as having spoken with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and Transport Secretary Pete Buttigieg and urged them both to work together in resolving the dispute.