Sask. First Nation threatens action against suspected drug dealers

WATCH: Leaders in Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation are warning residents suspected of dealing drugs in the community that they may soon be evicted, or worse.

Leaders in Beardy’s and Okemasis Cree Nation are warning residents suspected of dealing drugs in the community that they may soon be evicted, or worse.

In a July 14 “second notice” letter obtained by CTV News, the band council warns residents of several “homes of interest” that it’s received ongoing reports of illegal activity including drug sales and trafficking, gang-related activity and drug use.

“These actions are a direct threat to the safety, health and well-being of our nation,” the letter states. “We are giving this second warning that if these activities continue, the names of the homes of interest will be made public, and law enforcement and housing authorities will take further action.”

To avoid escalation, the band is ordering the heads of those homes of interest to meet with council, its housing department and the Sitoskatowin circle of care by Aug. 1 to create a plan and prepare for a housing inspection.

• Get the latest news from Saskatoon, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App

The parties would meet again on Aug. 15 for a compliance review, the letter says.

“Our nation believes in supporting each other through change. We ask that families step up and take that initiative to help your family members in addiction and that are involved in illegal activity and let it be known that this will no longer be ignored or allowed to continue.”

Beardy’s and Okemasis, located about 100 kilometres northeast of Saskatoon, has taken steps to banish drug dealers from the community before. The practice is not uncommon in Saskatchewan.

In January 2020, Cowessess First Nation banned two people from the community for a year for alleged “crystal meth cases.”

Red Pheasant Cree Nation declared a state of emergency in October 2023 after a spate of seven overdoses in a single day. At the time, Chief Lux Benson threated that anyone suspected of dealing drugs in the community would be evicted from their homes.

Some First Nations have tried other means of fighting crime on their lands.

In Onion Lake Cree Nation, situated along the Alberta border, some residents were confused and alarmed when a private security company the band hired to fight drug dealing and gang activity on reserve last summer began pulling over band members in full tactical gear and face masks.

A number of Onion Lake residents who spoke to CTV News had no idea the band had authorized a security company to conduct law enforcement activities on reserve.

The Saskatchewan RCMP issued a warning at the time that it believed someone was impersonating police in the area. CTV News spoke with the security company hired by Onion Lake, which alleged the RCMP were fully aware of their presence.

The RCMP denied elements of those claims, saying it was still actively “working to identify” the group.

In Beardy’s, they’re taking a decidedly softer approach — for now.

“We want those who may be struggling to know that there is hope. You are not alone. We strongly encourage you to seek support,” the letter says.

“Take this notice seriously. Make the choice to stop, reach out for help, and be part of a safer, stronger nation. Help is available. Healing is possible.”