Sidney/North Saanich RCMP arrested three men for allegedly refusing to wear masks and getting aggressive with others on a BC Ferries sailing bound for Vancouver Island on Sept. 24.

Officers boarded the Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay Spirit of British Columbia ferry just after 8:30 p.m. on Sept. 24 due to reports of three men who were threatening to fight other passengers.

All passengers aged 12 and over must wear masks in indoor spaces aboard vessels and at ferry terminals.

Sidney/North Saanich RCMP said the three men became aggressive after passengers confronted them about not wearing masks. BC Ferries officials also told the men they were required to wear masks.

Cpl. Andres Sanchez, media relations officer for Sidney/North Saanich RCMP, said the provincial mask mandates are in place to protect the public and help control the spread of COVID-19.

鈥淭hese individuals defied the direction of the trained crew members whose job is first and foremost to keep passengers safe,鈥� Sanchez said. 鈥淭hese three men took it upon themselves to put others鈥� health at risk by refusing to wear the masks on a crowded voyage and when confronted on their behaviour, threatened others.鈥�

The three men were released with a December court date in Victoria and conditions barring them from BC Ferries property.

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