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By northeastNOW Staff

Pelican Narrows RCMP update

RCMP outlines steps taken to reduce crime in Pelican Narrows

May 5, 2025 | 5:20 PM

Is there some progress in Pelican Narrows?

A state of emergency was declared in 2023 due to the high rate of criminal activity and violence. The crisis was highlighted in a news conference last February, with First Nations leaders calling for immediate help in solving the issues faced in the community.

At that time, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) Chief Karen Bird read a letter to both Premier Scott Moe and then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The letter outlined the crisis Pelican Narrows faced, which she said extended to public health, schools, and infrastructure.

Saskatchewan RCMP released some statistics on Monday to update the situation from a policing perspective.

“Saskatchewan RCMP continues to contribute to the safety of Pelican Narrows residents and by helping to create a more secure community for all those who call it home,” the release stated.

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Illicit drugs, prohibited weapons, and criminal activity in Pelican Narrows were targeted by Pelican Narrows RCMP and the RCMP’s Prince Albert Crime Reduction Team (CRT). The CRT has been deployed to the community five times since January, and the RCMP said they worked with frontline officers to help remove dangerous drugs from Pelican Narrows.

Pelican Narrows RCMP have investigated 29 drug-related files so far this year, which is more than they did at the same point in 2024. Four people were arrested in January through enforcement initiatives, resulting in 16 drug and weapons charges. The RCMP said that there were 50 investigations by Pelican Narrows RCMP in the community and surrounding area in 2024, in an effort to deal with the drug crisis.

“The day-to-day work of our frontline officers and efforts to tackle illegal drug activity are really reinforced through these specialized initiatives and the support of units like the CRT, especially when we see the positive public safety outcomes they produce,” Staff Sergeant Ryan Davies, Pelican Narrows Detachment Commander said.

PBCN Pelican Narrows Police Board Chair Sarah Swan said the presence of specialized policing units in the area has been welcome.

“We are encouraged by recent enforcement actions and strongly support continued collaboration to improve safety and restore a sense of security for all residents.”