The Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service (WTPS) has launched its new online reporting system, allowing residents to submit non-emergency incidents through a digital portal as part of a broader effort to enhance community safety and police responsiveness. The platform, accessible 24/7 via the WTPS website, enables users to report suspicious activity or minor crimes without needing to call or visit the police station. Features include a user-friendly interface, dedicated staff to review submissions, and follow-up mechanisms to ensure cases are addressed. “We call it ‘Connect, Report and Protect,’” said the police service’s Chief, Ron Gignac, in an interview with CTV News last week. “Sometimes people feel more comfortable reporting things online, so we wanted to make sure that we weren’t missing that data from online reporting or that information that we could receive to help us further our investigations.” The initiative aims to bridge gaps in community engagement, particularly among younger generations. “I think it’s going to capture the data we might be missing in certain cases because we all know that the younger generations tend to do things more online,” Gignac added. “So I think we’ll be able to build that capacity into the final phase of what we’re trying to accomplish here, which is information sharing.” Const. Raven Manitowabi has been visiting local businesses and schools to promote the system, emphasizing its role in developing collaboration. “If you see something, say something,” WTPS reiterated in a social media post. “Together we can make our community safe and vibrant.” While the online tool is designed for non-emergencies, WTPS reminded residents that Crime Stoppers remains an option for confidential tips. The system is part of the force’s commitment to transparency and proactive policing, ensuring residents have multiple ways to engage with law enforcement. The online reporting portal can be accessed at wtps.ca by clicking ‘Online Reporting’ at the top of the page. With files from CTVNorthernOntario.ca journalist Chelsea Papineau
