The Port of Oakland in California, the US, has been forced to close for security reasons while protestors from the Occupy movement and local residents continue to demonstrate and strike across the city.
The activists are reportedly fronting an anti-corporate greed protest, which began on 17 September in New York and has since spread into a multinational series of protests in other US cities.
“At this time maritime operations are effectively shut down at the Port of Oakland. Maritime area operations will resume when it is safe and secure to do so,” the port said in a statement.
Oakland police estimated that about 3,000 demonstrators were gathered at the port and police said 4,500 people had marched across the city on Wednesday.
The port said it is understandable that the citizens of Oakland want to show solidarity with the worldwide movement for economic and social justice but ensured that the facility remains committed to a peaceful and safe march for all involved.
Despite the economic challenges nationwide, the port also highlighted the fact that it generates over 73,000 jobs in the region.
The Port of Oakland is a major West Coast hub for both imports and exports of fresh fruits and vegetables, among other items.
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