SASKATOON — The recent increase in gang violence and drug activity in the Buffalo River Dene Nation has its leaders calling for a state of emergency in their community.
BRDN Chief Norma Catarat said this was the decision made by her and the councillors to ensure the safety of their community.
“The recent violence has created a sense of fear in our community. Our community needs support. We need help to ensure every single band member feels safe in their home and their community,” said Catarat.
“The BRDN Council will work to find solutions and a pathway forward to healing, but we need the provincial and federal governments to aid us in our pursuit for a better future.”
Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations Chief Bobby Cameron said First Nations communities are hurting and need the support of everyone.
“There is only so much the BRDN Council can do by themselves. Calling a state of emergency shows strength and dedication to their band members,” said Cameron, who also asked for the assistance of provincial authorities.
“We call on the province of Saskatchewan’s Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety to provide immediate relief on through additional funding for the RCMP to conduct proactive enforcement immediately. Our communities are in crisis and they will not go through this alone.”
