Sitansisk declares state of emergency
St. Mary’s First Nation indicates drug activity on reserve has reached critical levels, culminating in volatile situation involving hundreds in community Sunday night
The chief and band council of Sitansisk (St. Mary’s) First Nation have declared a state of emergency in the community in the wake of a dangerous situation Sunday that prompted a major police response.
The Fredericton Police Force confirmed earlier Monday that its officers and members of the RCMP, along with Fredericton Fire Department and Ambulance New Brunswick personnel, responded to Sitansisk at about 7:15 p.m. Sunday after receiving a report of “a disturbance.”
“Upon arrival, members observed a large crowd gathered in an area that required immediate containment,” a police spokesperson stated Monday.
Officers, including members of the police force’s tactical unit known as the emergency response team, managed the crowd of hundreds and arrested one male suspect on suspicion of an assault with a weapon.
On Monday evening, the First Nation’s Chief Allan Polchies and council issued a statement, indicating the situation Sunday night stemmed from drug activity in the community, and that something had to be done immediately about it.
"Our community is facing escalating risks due to illegal drug activity which endangers the safety and wellbeing of our citizens, particularly our youth,” the statement said.
“In response, we are declaring a state of emergency to access additional resources through provincial and federal programs.”
It said the next 48 hours in the initial stages of the state of emergency will be critical in curbing the drug trade in the Sitansisk First Nation, and it emphasized that all members of the community have roles to play.
“The battle against drugs is one which demands unity and a collective commitment to safety,” the statement said.
“The actions of each individual impact the overall safety and success of our community's efforts. We cannot afford to be complacent or indifferent in the face of this threat.”
Community members can help by staying inside in the coming days, keeping kids at home and avoiding gatherings, it said. It noted especially people should avoid grouping together to watch police activity in the community, which is expected to be stepped up during this time.
It also advised people who need a safe place to speak with others that the community’s Criticial Incident Street Management (CISM) team's services are available, as is the sacred fire and drum circle at the Mapiyahtimok.
"Our local law enforcement agencies will be assigning additional patrols throughout the community,” it said.
“Any behaviour threatening the well-being of our community with be dealt with swiftly and decisively.
The community also advised through social media that more information will be forthcoming as a plan is finalized in collaboration with federal and provincial agencies to improve the situation.
The Fredericton Independent reached out to Polchies for a comment earlier Monday but didn’t receive a response.
The Fredericton Police Force said no serious injuries were reported as a result of Sunday’s events.
It noted the male who was arrested was released on conditions.
Don MacPherson can be contacted at ftonindependent@gmail.com.