Battlefords RCMP report 20,000 calls in 2025, highlight community engagement and crime reduction

(Courtesy: Saskatchewan RCMP)

The Battlefords RCMP responded to more than 20,000 calls in 2025.

As the largest RCMP detachment in Saskatchewan, they provide policing to more than 25,000 residents, covering the City of North Battleford, the Town of Battleford, and five First Nations communities. Officers handle both municipal and rural policing, with support from specialized units and resources from across the province.

“We’re getting out and engaging with the community, but we’re also focusing on core policing and making sure we stick to what we do best—policing and enforcement,” Battlefords RCMP Detachment Commander Inspector Ryan How said. “When residents see Battlefords RCMP officers in the community, they can be confident we’re working to effectively police the region.”

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Community involvement

RCMP officers actively participated in more than 60 community events last year, including school programs, pow wows, and local safety initiatives. Downtown North Battleford saw over 600 foot patrols, with officers supporting residents facing mental health and addiction challenges.

“While patrolling downtown, officers regularly meet residents facing mental health and addiction challenges. Enforcement alone isn’t the answer—arresting or charging someone isn’t always the solution,” Insp. How said.

The detachment also organized a “Cram the Cruiser” food drive, collecting more than 4,200 pounds of food and $3,500 for the Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre.

“We’re proud of the progress we made in 2025, and we’re committed to building on that momentum this year,” How added. “Strong partnerships and connections make safer communities possible.”

Partnering with First Nations

Battlefords RCMP also strengthened collaboration with local First Nations communities. In October 2025, the Sweetgrass First Nation Security Team assisted in the arrest of a wanted person, highlighting how communication and cooperation improve public safety.

“This arrest is a clear example of what we can do when we work together,” How said. “Quick action and strong communication were key in removing a wanted person from the community. It shows how important these relationships are in keeping people safe.”

Combatting property crime

Targeted property crime prevention night patrols were introduced in September 2025. Officers patrolled on foot and bicycles, in both uniform and plain clothes, to deter thefts, break and enters, and vehicle thefts.

“We know from reports that property crime is a concern in certain areas,” How said. “With these patrols, we aim to respond quickly to property crime calls and prevent incidents before they happen.”

The last quarter of 2025 saw an 11 per cent decrease in property offences compared to 2024, and break and enters have dropped 21 per cent since 2023. These patrols were carried out in partnership with North Battleford Municipal Community Safety Officers and Battlefords Citizens on Patrol.

Specialized units and crime reduction

Frontline officers in the Battlefords are supported by specialized units, including the Serious Crimes Unit, Police Dog Services, and Forensic Identification Section. Provincial teams such as the Critical Incident Response Program, Major Crimes Branch, and Underwater Recovery Team also provide support when needed.

In North Battleford, the city’s Crime Reduction Team (CRT) executed 96 search warrants, seizing 10 firearms, illegal drugs, and recovered stolen vehicles. The team supported frontline officers, leading several investigations and coordinating policing efforts across the city.

Beyond gang-related activity in North Battleford, the CRT also assisted neighbouring detachments with targeted enforcement and crime suppression operations.

A commitment to safety

“The CRT and CRT-GTF work closely with our frontline officers to identify, target, and dismantle the networks driving violence in the Battlefords,” How said. “Their efforts in 2025 demonstrate how coordinated, proactive policing makes a real impact, and the results speak for themselves.”