WIIKWEMKOONG—The Ontario Fire Marshal is investigating a fire that razed the Nadmadwin Clinic located on Hills Trail in Wiikwemkoong overnight, Ogimaa Rachel Manitowabi told the community in a Facebook livestream Tuesday afternoon.
“I would like to take some time right now to address concerns from community members about recent activities that have some people feeling nervous and scared,” Ogimaa Manitowabi said. “Today, many of us awoke to the news of a fire at Naandwe Miikaan on Hills Trail in Wiikwemkoong. The incident has since been contained and the Fire Marshall is investigating. At this time, the facility remains closed while the investigation continues.”
The ogimaa noted that the Naandwe Miikaan staff are currently working out of Nadmadwin Clinic for today and measures are underway to help ensure clients are able to access the services they require.
If clients have any questions, please call 705-280-9310.
The ogimaa also shared that there was another small fire located at the K-9 building beside the Wiikwemkoong Landfill site.
“Furthermore, our community is also expressing concern over recent break-ins or attempted break-ins of vehicles,” she added.
“Wikwemkong Tribal Police is currently following up and investigating incidents. They say the only way that charges can possibly be laid in these cases, or any incident for that matter, is by victims filing official reports and statements.”
“What has happened recently with these types of activities, and ones we’ve heard about this past year, have resulted in our community asking more questions and calling for increased awareness and safety measures,” Ogimaa Manitowabi continued. “We understand that some of our community is experiencing fear and discouragement. Your feelings are valid, being heard and most importantly, being addressed.”
Ogimaa Manitowabi encouraged community members “to look out for each other” and “report suspicious behaviours or activities. If you witness something or are suspicious of something, call Wiikwemkoong Tribal Police at 705-859-3141 or emergencies, 9-1-1.”
“Keep in mind, that contacting police directly is the most effective way to help ensure police follow up and intervention and please, remember to remain within safe boundaries for your own safety if in fact you do witness something criminal or suspicious,” the ogimaa said.
