NAPS Launches Border Control Pilot Program to Help Disrupt Drug Trade, Enhance Community Safety and Security
(THUNDER BAY, ON) – The Nishnawbe Aski Police Service formally launched its NAPS Border Control (NBC) pilot program, providing participating remote First Nation communities with additional support and tools to help maintain public safety and security.
The program’s launch was announced Monday, Nov. 9 at the Thunder Bay International Airport and featured delegates from the Ministry of the Solicitor General, Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Nishnawbe Aski Police Services Board, and Nishnawbe Aski Police Service.
Leading up to Monday’s announcement, special signage informing the public about the NBC program was installed at various airlines that fly into NBC communities.
NBC pilot communities include:
- Eabametoong First Nation
- Sandy Lake First Nation
- Sachigo Lake First Nation
- Kasabonika Lake First Nation
- Kashechewan First Nation
As part of this program, NAPS has deployed special constables to pilot communities to conduct searches of all travellers entering the community, pursuant to NBC Band Council Resolutions adopted by each pilot community.
Each special constable hired for the NBC program was recruited directly from the community where they are now deployed.
The concept of the NBC originated in August 2022 when the NAN Chiefs directed NAPS to develop a dedicated search program with the aim of combatting the flow of illegal drugs into communities. Following the Chief’s Resolution: Support for NAPS Border Control Strategy, the police service developed the NBC pilot program.
To learn more about the NBC program, or to download copies of the Chief’s Resolution and Band Council Resolutions, visit https://naps.ca/naps-border-control.
Michael Kerzner Announcement: https://x.com/TeamKerzner/status/2119896668225118382
Quotes
Today’s launch is a step in the right direction, and we are grateful for Ontario’s investment in this work. This works because it is built by communities, for communities – our Chiefs mandated it in 2022 because they knew what their communities were facing. But border control should not be a pilot. It should be the standard. Every First Nation in NAN deserves this protection.
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler
We are proud the Special Constables hired and deployed for the NBC program are from the very communities that they will be working in. They know their communities and its people and have a vested interest in helping to maintain its safety and security. They want to see a better future for their communities and are committed to be part of that positive change.
Nishnawbe Aski Police Services Board Chair Frank McKay
For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca