Amidst ongoing efforts to address the prevalence of drug trafficking in Indigenous communities, United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin (UCCM) Anishnaabe Police has taken a bold step towards strengthening public safety on Manitoulin Island. The establishment of a dedicated drug enforcement unit marks a significant milestone for Indigenous police services, following a landmark court ruling last June that lifted restrictions on specialized investigative units.
This historic ruling has empowered the UCCM Anishnaabe Police, along with other Indigenous police services, to enhance their capabilities in combating drug-related crimes. Prior to this ruling, Indigenous police services were hindered by the First Nations and Inuit Policing Act from creating such specialized units.
UCCM Anishnaabe Police Chief James Killeen emphasized the urgent need for a specialized drug unit, citing a survey conducted within the six communities they serve. The survey revealed that 85% of respondents prioritized the creation of such a unit.
Chief Killeen highlighted the unit’s potential to tackle the influx of drug traffickers from the Greater Toronto Area into Manitoulin Island. He noted that these traffickers take advantage of the island’s relatively lower police presence and the higher prices they can fetch for their illicit substances.
The drug enforcement unit will comprise a detective sergeant and five detective constables, demonstrating the police service’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. Chief Killeen acknowledged the challenges in recruiting officers in the current competitive environment faced by police services nationwide.
Despite the temporary nature of the emergency funding agreement that has facilitated the creation of the unit, Chief Killeen expressed confidence in its long-term viability. He emphasized that the proven need for such a unit, as demonstrated in court, will make it difficult for the federal government to withdraw funding in the future.
The establishment of this drug enforcement unit is a crucial step towards ensuring equality and enhancing the safety of First Nations communities on Manitoulin Island. It underscores the commitment of UCCM Anishnaabe Police to provide adequate and properly funded police services, empowering them to address the challenges posed by drug trafficking and organized crime.
