3 charged in connection with water treatment break-in: Manitoba RCMP

RCMP have arrested and charged three people in connection with a break-in at a northern First Nation’s water treatment plant.

Three people have been charged in connection with a break-in at a water treatment plant on a Manitoba First Nation that briefly rendered it inoperable.

On April 29, RCMP were called to Garden Hill First Nation’s water treatment plant. According to police, machinery inside the plant was damaged, and the facility could not operate. Numerous power tools valued at over $100,000 were also stolen.

The next day, RCMP arrested three men after warrants were executed at two homes. Tools were found and seized during the searches.

An 18-year-old and a 20-year-old man, both from Garden Hill, have been charged with multiple offences, including theft over $5,000, breaking and entering with intent and possession of stolen property. The 18-year-old is also charged with mischief over $5,000 causing property damage.

A 53-year-old man from Oxford House was charged with possession of property obtained by crime.

The 18-year-old was remanded into custody, while the other two were released on an undertaking.

The charges against the three have not been proven in court.

RCMP said work at the plant is finished and the water has been deemed safe to drink.