Local police are confirming their commitment to helping the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation through a state of emergency.
The First Nation made that declaration back on December 1st of last year in response to opioid-related harms that were affecting the community.
The OPP says that they continue to respond to overdose incidents and conduct investigations relating to opioid trafficking involving vulnerable individuals in the region and are focused on stemming the tide of illicit drugs flowing into locations like Pembroke, Renfrew, and Pikwakanagan.
They add that they are working with their policing, judicial, and Indigenous community partners to do so and are maintaining close relationships with our local health units.
Anyone with information regarding illicit drugs in the region should contact their local police detachment or report it anonymously through Renfrew County Crime Stoppers.
(written by Kasey Egan)