PIC MOBERT FIRST NATION – Fed up with an influx of drug dealers, leaders in Pic Mobert First Nation say they will banish anyone caught selling narcotics on band territory – some permanently.
Chief and council announced this week that any band member convicted of a drug-trafficking offence while residing on the reserve will be deemed a trespasser and will face banishment for at least five years, as well as immediate eviction from and band-owned home, should they reside in one.
Non-band members convicted of trafficking offences will be banned for life from Pic Mobert, also known as Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg, located about half an hour east of Marathon.
Additionally, anyone caught selling drugs from a band-owned home will be evicted and prevented from residing in a band-owned home for life, while any non-band member living or boarding in a home where someone is convicted of trafficking will be evicted and banished for life.
“We will be communicating with our citizens in the coming weeks and months on our activities and results on this important work. We believe that you deserve a healthy, happy and prosperous life and we will do all that we can as your leadership to accomplish this,” chief and council wrote in a community update, noting the pandemic has brought to light the struggles the community faces with addiction and violence.
The reality is, too many are struggling and suffering, they added. It’s time to change the direction to prevent drug addiction from taking hold of anyone else in the community.
“But we need you to participate in this process. We need your support, your encouragement and your participation in your healing and wellness. Our future is bright. We are advancing on restoring our lands, expanding our reserve, creating many opportunities for meaningful work and a good life,” they concluded.
