OTTAWA POLICE SETTING UP HATE CRIME HOTLINE AFTER REPORTS OF ASSAULTS AND THREATS.

Chandrayee Roy Choudhury, Canada: Ottawa's police chief says a hate crime hotline will go live before the end of the day Tuesday to investigate crimes related to the demonstrations that have taken over much of the city's downtown core and which are dragging into a fifth day.

Police Chief Peter Sloly, Mayor Jim Watson and city councillors and have spoken out about various reports of of hate-fuelled violence over the weekend, including intimidation and harassment by protesters as thousands flooded the nation's capital.

"No matter where you live, no matter where your vehicle's registered, if you've come here and committed a crime, if you have committed a hate crime, you will be investigated. We will look for you, we will charge you. If necessary, we'll arrest you, and we will pursue prosecutions against you." Says Chief of Police Sloly.

Residents and organizations across the downtown have complained to city councillors, media organizations and on social media about hate-related threats.

A Confederate flag, swastika and yellow stars have been seen at different times throughout the protests.