The Portland Police Bureau is calling on the public for assistance in tracking down a group of individuals who dashed out of the PSU library during a police action. The escape occurred amidst an operation to clear out what had become a days-long occupation of the library facilities.
Authorities said yesterday, May 2, a contingent of 18 people made a break from the library, vanishing before they could be questioned or detained. Police officers had been working to disperse occupiers of the library, which had been the scene of a protest. The bureau has released images and information to the public, in the hopes that witnesses can aid in identifying the fleeing group, according to official statements.
Despite the chaos that generally accompanies such incidents, there were no immediate reports of injuries or damage following the exit of the individuals from the library premises. The Portland Police Bureau has not disclosed, the reasons behind the occupation nor the intentions of the individuals involved. However, they have urged anyone with information to come forward. As the situation develops, the PPB continues to investigate the motive and aftermath of the occupation
The PSU library incident adds to a series of public demonstrations that have seen an increase in both frequency and intensity in recent times. The Portland Police called for the community's assistance underlining that public safety and accountability needed to go hand in hand. They emphasized that the community's cooperation is essential, both, for ensuring order and for safeguarding the protesters' rights to free expression.
