A prominent Canadian photojournalist and an award-winning news outlet have launched a civil lawsuit against the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), alleging a wrongful arrest during a major pipeline protest in British Columbia.
The Lawsuit and Its Core Allegations
Amber Bracken, a photojournalist, and The Narwhal news organization filed the suit in British Columbia Supreme Court on Monday, January 12, 2026. The legal action seeks financial damages and a formal court declaration that Bracken's arrest by RCMP officers in November 2021 was unlawful.
The incident occurred during police enforcement actions against opponents of the Coastal GasLink pipeline in northern B.C. The plaintiffs argue that Bracken was clearly identifiable as a member of the press and was performing her professional duties at the time. The lawsuit contends that her arrest violated constitutional protections for freedom of the press and was carried out without reasonable grounds.
Key Figures and Legal Proceedings
Bracken, accompanied by Carol Linnitt, the acting editor-in-chief and executive director of The Narwhal, arrived at the Law Courts Building in Vancouver to commence proceedings. The Narwhal, known for its in-depth environmental journalism, is standing by its journalist and challenging what it sees as an intimidation tactic against the media.
The case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and journalists covering resource development and Indigenous rights protests in Canada. The plaintiffs' legal team is expected to argue that the arrest created a chilling effect, potentially discouraging other reporters from covering similar events of significant public interest.
Broader Context and Potential Impact
This lawsuit revisits a contentious period in B.C.'s history, marked by widespread protests and blockades in opposition to the multi-billion dollar Coastal GasLink project. The legal outcome could set a precedent regarding the rights and protections afforded to journalists working in dynamic and sometimes volatile protest situations.
A successful suit for Bracken and The Narwhal would not only result in compensation but also deliver a judicial rebuke of the police's actions during that operation. The RCMP has not yet publicly filed a statement of defense in response to the newly launched civil claim.
The case underscores the critical role of a free press in a democracy and tests the boundaries of police authority when interacting with media professionals documenting civil disobedience. Observers from both journalism and civil liberties organizations will be closely monitoring the court's handling of this significant case.
