Date Issued: January 27, 2026
Order in Council Number: OIC-313-2026-01
Authorized by: NCN Chief and Council
Effective Date: January 31, 2026 (12:00 a.m.)
Duration: 90 days (unless amended or revoked)
Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Chief and Council have issued an Order in Council extending the State of Emergency across all NCN Lands (excluding Mystery Lake lands) in response to escalating concerns related to crime, violence, illegal drugs, alcohol, and gang activity within N’tuskenan.
Chief and Council took this action after hearing clear concerns from NCN citizens and observing increasing risks to public safety, health, and community wellbeing, including the presence of non-NCN individuals, the circulation of fentanyl-laced substances, and incidents of gang-related violence.
Purpose of the State of Emergency
The State of Emergency is intended to:
- Reduce violence and criminal activity
- Protect children, families, Elders, and residents
- Prevent the spread of illegal drugs and bootleg alcohol
- Address gang activity and harbouring
- Support long-term wellness and healing in the community
Key Measures in Effect
Entry and Checkstop Controls
- Only NCN residents and authorized individuals may enter NCN Lands
- Identification, search of vehicles and belongings, and visitor information are required
- Visitors are not permitted entry between 12:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., except for emergency or compassionate reasons with authorization
Alcohol and Drug Restrictions
- Bootlegging and illegal drug activity remain strictly prohibited
- Daily commuters, employees, and authorized visitors may not transport alcohol or cannabis
- Residents may transport alcohol or cannabis once per day, between 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., with valid permits and receipts
- Increased allowable limits apply, as outlined in the Order
Weapons Prohibited
- Bear mace, machetes, knives, guns, and other weapons are prohibited unless authorized
- Individuals causing harm with a weapon may face immediate eviction or banishment
Youth Curfew
- Curfew in effect for youth under 18: 11:00 p.m. – 7:00 a.m.
- Ongoing breaches may result in:
- Loss of regular benefits
- Alternate benefits
- Referral to Child and Family Services
- Fines or community-based dispositions
- ATVs, Boats, and Recreational Vehicles
- No operation between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Vehicles violating this rule may be seized
Gang Activity and Harbouring
- Gang activity, clothing, and meetings are prohibited
- Harbouring gang-affiliated or banished individuals is prohibited
Wellness-First Approach
NCN recognizes that enforcement alone is not the answer. Anyone who violates this Order may be offered the opportunity to pursue Ethinehkahiwewin (Wellness) through:
- Justice Department programs
- Family and Community Wellness Centre
- Medicine Lodge
- Land-based healing programs
The goal is Mithopematisiwin — a good life.
Penalties and Review
Failure to comply with this Order may result in:
- $500 fines per violation
- Eviction and/or banishment
This Order will be reviewed regularly and may be modified, revoked, or extended as conditions change.
