Garden River sounds alarm over apparent gang activity, human trafficking

Garden River First Nation has issued an "urgent warning" about apparent gang activity and human trafficking in the community. 

"As our community continues to operate under a state of emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it has also become more apparent than ever that we are also dealing with another epidemic that is associated with drugs, human trafficking and other unlawful activity," reads a release issued by the First Nation Friday morning. 

On Thursday, chief and council passed a resolution surrounding gangs and gang activity within Garden River First Nation territory that bans gangs or any signs of gang activity including dress codes, styles, colours, establishment of private and community facilities for "gang activities or any other forms of gang expression." 

The band council resolution (BCR) also gives the First Nation the power to expropriate land from landholders who are found in violation of the order.

All evidence of gang activity — including proceeds of crime — can also be confiscated by the First Nation under the newly-introduced resolution. 

Leadership is urging its membership to contact Anishinabek Police Service or Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122 or *677 if they witness any suspicious activity. 

SooToday has reached out to Garden River First Nation Chief Andy Rickard for comment.