In a news release issued today, the Garden River Detachment of the Anishinabek Police Service reminds area residents that access to Garden River First Nation is restricted to Garden River residents and essential service providers only.
A check point has been set up at Syrette Lake Road, and emergency access is available at the east and west boundaries of Highway 17B.
These restrictions are in place for the duration of the provincial Stay at Home Order, and anyone caught not complying with these orders could face trespassing charges or be charged under the Emergency Management and Civil Protections Act, the release states.
Full text of the Anishinabek Police Service follows:
As most are aware, Garden River First Nation has erected barricades into the community. Access into Garden River is restricted to Garden River residents only and essential services. All access points into the First Nation have been closed except for a checkpoint at Syrette Lake Road which is monitored 24 hours a day. Access into the First Nation for emergencies will be at the east and west ends of Highway 17B which is guarded by Norpro Security.
Police have observed numerous vehicles parked at the various barricades and on occasion have observed footprints leading into the community.
This media release is meant to warn and remind all persons that entry into the Garden River First Nation is only allowed through the aforementioned checkpoint at Syrette Lake Road. Anyone caught trespassing could face trespassing charges or charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protections Act as the provincial Stay at Home Order is still in effect. Any vehicles parked illegally at any of the barricades are likely to be towed away at the owner’s expense.
Garden River APS Detachment would like to remind its band members that the barricades have been erected to protect our community from this pandemic and allowing such behaviour puts the health of the community at large at risk. Please do not allow or encourage this activity.
If anyone has information regarding events such as these is encouraged to call the local Garden River Detachment (705-946-4196) or to call Crime Stoppers at (705) 942-7867 or toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or at P3TIPS.com.