Protester chains herself to Edmonton Valley Zoo calling for Lucy the Elephant’s release

A protest at the Edmonton Valley Zoo led to three people facing charges on Tuesday.

Edmonton police say they were contacted by the zoo around 12:17 p.m. due to what they describe as an unauthorized protest inside the zoo.

In a statement to CityNews, the zoo says the protest was regarding Lucy, the Asian elephant.

When police arrived at the scene, they found a small group refusing to leave the zoo. Additionally, a 53-year-old had chained herself to the elephant exhibit.

With help from Edmonton Fire Rescue Services, the woman was cut free and taken into custody along with a 53-year-old man and a 31-year-old man.

Police say both are facing charges for public mischief, possessing a concealed weapon, causing a disturbance, and trespassing.

“The Edmonton Valley Zoo respects the right to peaceful protest but emphasizes that such activities must take place outside of the facility in designated areas to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests and the well-being of the animals in our care. As this group was loud, disruptive, and refused to leave when asked, police were called to escort them off of zoo property,” said Edmonton Valley Zoo in a statement.

The zoo notes that staff maintained the safety and security of all guests, animals, and personnel.

“Zoo operations continued as normal, and at no point was there a threat to the safety of visitors, staff, or animals,” said the zoo’s statement, before adding, “Guests were diverted around the area during the incident.”