THOMPSON — A northern Manitoba First Nation has declared a state of emergency because of growing drug use and violence in the community.
Chief Kelly-Ann Thom-Duck of Sayisi Dene First Nation says many residents are afraid to leave their homes, visit the band office, or go to the grocery store. The remote fly-in community is calling on the federal and provincial governments for more police officers and better mental health and addiction services.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said the province will work with the community to improve safety. The RCMP says more officers have been added to the Thompson area and patrols will increase in the coming months.
Indigenous Services Canada said it is concerned about the situation and is reaching out to community leaders to discuss their needs.
