The U.S. Postal Service is closing an office in Helena early Saturday in preparation of possible “civil events” anticipated this weekend.
The FBI in an internal bulletin has warned of armed protests at all state capitals across the country planned from January 16 through at least January 20.
In addition to closing the P.O. Box section of the office at 500 N. Last Chance Gulch at noon Saturday, USPS is temporarily removing two blue collection boxes at 1731 11th Ave. and 528 N. Sanders Street.
A USPS press release says the temporary removal is a security measure to protect postal property, employees and the public.
The release did not say when the boxes would be reinstalled and a spokesperson did not respond to an email with that question by deadline.
Gov. Greg Gianforte is deploying 150 Montana National Guard members to help with security duties in Washington D.C. for the upcoming presidential inauguration.
The Lewis and Clark County Sheriff’s Office says it’s working with the Helena Police Department and Capitol security to monitor the Montana statehouse on Sunday and Wednesday. The sheriff’s office is also conferring with the FBI.
