NAN POLICE STEP UP PATROLS, LOOK FOR ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES

The Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service has stepped up patrols on winter roads in
an effort to prevent contraband from entering remote First Nation communities.

A number of illegal substances have been seized recently, including 220
grams of marijuana, three grams of cannabis resin and one firearm.

Two weeks ago, community security officers with the North Spirit Lake First
Nation seized 18 small bottles of alcohol from a person headed toward
remote northern communities, NAN said.

Police said alcohol can be confiscated by police or community security
officials if it's destined for remote communities which ban alcohol
possession and consumption.

Liquor has an inflated value when sold in remote communities that have
chosen to ban the possession and consumption of alcohol, they said.

NAN spokesman Nick Baranik said the public using the winter roads can
expect to see increased patrols and checks over the next few weeks.

While the winter road system is vital for transporting supplies into remote
communities, he said those same routes unfortunately provide a way for
those looking to move contraband.