Two neighbouring First Nations in northwestern Ontario have declared a joint state of emergency because of rising crime, violence, and drug trafficking affecting their communities.
Long Lake #58 First Nation and Ginoogaming First Nation, located about 300 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay along Highway 11, say they are facing increasing safety concerns linked to drug and alcohol-related crime.
Ginoogaming first declared an emergency in May 2024, pointing to rising violence and drug activity that was overwhelming community leadership and making residents feel unsafe. Long Lake #58 issued its own declaration in January over similar issues, including drug traffickers targeting vulnerable community members.
In a joint statement, the First Nations are now calling on provincial and federal governments to provide stronger support, including policing, mental health services, and addiction treatment programs. They say a coordinated effort is needed to address both immediate safety concerns and long-term recovery.
Leaders also highlighted recent serious incidents, including a fatal shooting and a major drug bust, as signs the situation is getting worse.
The communities say they are also taking local action, including new safety measures and bylaw enforcement aimed at reducing illegal drug activity. However, they stress that outside support is still urgently needed.
Officials and community leaders say collaboration between governments and First Nations is essential to improving safety and addressing the ongoing crisis.
