Spring Break is officially in full swing, and there are plenty of fun activities in the community for families to take part in!

The Pas Regional Library will have a variety of board games for families to play today, tomorrow and Thursday, running from 1 to 5 PM each day.

If you’re looking for something more physically active, the Winton Pool is hosting Public Swims all week, except for Friday and Sunday. The swims start at 1 PM each day, and it will be free on Wednesday.

The Roy H Johnston Arena will also be hosting Public Skates throughout the week, with the Skates being free today and Thursday. Skate rentals are available through the Kelsey Recreation and Wellness Centre.

Mayor Andre Murphy gave an update yesterday on 102.9 CJAR about what’s happening in the Town of The Pas.

He thanked and acknowledged the Public Works crew for their hard work in cleaning snow off the streets, only to have it snow again.

The Pas’ Fire Chief has applied for a Wawaneesa grant to help with wildfire protection for the community.

And, here he talks about a new support for the local CSO program.

Murphy also addressed the public hearing on the  Devon Park re-zoning, saying there’s still some work to be done before development starts, and final approval by council is still required.

On 102.9 CJAR yesterday morning, Mayor Andre Murphy joined many in voicing his condolences to the family of MLA Amanda Lathlin, who passed away on March 21st.

Lathlin represented the constituency of The Pas-Kameesak as an MLA from 2015 until her death.

At the time of her election, she was the first First Nations woman to serve in Manitoba's legislature.

Murphy added that Lathlin’s voice and advocacy will be missed in the legislature.

Residents in The Pas are invited to take part in an important community meeting supporting a vital local service.

Aurora House, operated by The Pas Committee for Women in Crisis, is hosting its Annual General Meeting tonight from 7 to 8 p.m. at Westminster United Church, located at 330 Edwards Avenue. Attendees are asked to use the far left door at the end of the ramp.

Aurora House provides emergency shelter, crisis support, and resources for primarily women and children facing domestic violence. The organization plays a critical role in northern Manitoba, offering a safe, confidential space along with counselling, advocacy, and community education.

At this year’s meeting, organizers are also looking for dedicated community members to join their Board of Directors. Anyone interested is encouraged to bring a letter of intent.

Aurora House says community involvement is key to continuing its mission of supporting those in crisis and building safer communities. Email director@aurorahousethepas.com for more information.

The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs responded to the province’s 2026 budget, welcoming investments in housing, healthcare, education, and public safety, while calling for stronger partnerships with First Nations.

The budget speech opened with a tribute to Amanda Lathlin, MLA for Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

Lathlin made history in 2015 as the first First Nations woman elected to Manitoba’s Legislative Assembly. Leaders say her legacy highlights the need for Indigenous voices in decisions that affect their communities.

Grand Chief Kyra Wilson says while recent budgets showed some progress, this year raises questions about whether that commitment will continue.

She says First Nations need to be involved not just in delivering programs, but in shaping them from the start.

AMC adds that many communities still face rising costs, climate challenges, and barriers to services, and is calling for long-term funding, stronger support for reconciliation, and more First Nations-led solutions.

The Assembly says it’s ready to work with the province, but real progress depends on true partnership.

Young entrepreneurs unite as the second annual Children’s Business Fair is coming to the Opaskwayak and OCN Chamber of Commerce Annual Trade Show and Sale.

The fair will take place on May 9th from 10 a.m. to noon, highlighting youth businesses in the community.

This is an opportunity for kids to create their own brands, logos, and booths, then set up their wares and sell them during the trade show, giving them real-world sales and entrepreneurial experience.

Last year, 8-year-old Jetson Rollins from Ecole Opasquia School turned his love of hockey into a business.

At first, Jetson was nervous talking to customers, but after practicing at the Fair, he became confident and started earning his own money.

His advice for other kids: “It’s okay to be nervous. Choose something you love and your business will be great.”

For children wishing to take part, you can contact the Community Futures Cedar Lake Region. Registration will close on April 10th.

Manitoba’s 2026 provincial budget aims to balance the books within four years while delivering key investments to Manitobans, with a focus on healthcare and affordability.

Finance Minister Adrien Sala presented the plan yesterday, highlighting significant investments in health and new measures to ease financial pressure for families.

The budget includes funding for 4,054 new healthcare staff, with a specific focus on reducing emergency room wait times.

A major investment in cardiac care was also announced, with $22.1 million to re-establish the Cardiac Centre of Excellence at St. Boniface Hospital.

As grocery prices continue to rise, Budget 2026 introduces a significant move, removing the provincial sales tax on food sold in grocery stores starting July 1^st.

 Sala also emphasized new measures to increase rent relief and provide free transit for children and youth.

On the evening of March 23, 2026, at approximately 5:00 PM, The Pas RCMP responded to an alarm at a business located at Clearwater Lake.

Upon arriving at the scene, officers spoke with the owners, who reported that several items had been stolen from the store.

It is believed that the suspect or suspects may have hidden inside the business after closing hours, consuming both food and alcoholic beverages, and leaving behind a significant mess and breaking a window before fleeing.

The RCMP are now requesting the public's help in identifying any individuals with information regarding this theft.

Anyone with information can contact The Pas RCMP Detachment at 204-627-6204.

Opaskwayak Indigenous Days are just a few months away, and now is the time to begin planning and preparation.

A meeting will be held this evening at the GLMC for directors, starting at 5:30 PM.

Last year’s directors are asked to submit their fiscal reports at this time.

There will be discussions regarding this year’s event, which is scheduled to run from August 9 to 16. Several new directors are currently needed to take over various events.

The meeting is open to community members, directors, and anyone interested in volunteering for this year’s event.

There is a moderate risk of spring flooding along the Saskatchewan and Carrot Rivers, and water levels depend heavily on how much water is released from Tobin Lake in Saskatchewan, with Manitoba working closely with Saskatchewan to manage this.

This information comes from the Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure Hydrologic Forecast Centre in a release from last week.

There is also a chance that ice jams could cause flooding along the Saskatchewan, Carrot, and Swan Rivers.

The Manitoba government, local authorities, and the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization are working together to support planning and response efforts.

This includes reviewing emergency plans, sharing up-to-date information, offering training, preparing resources, and holding regular meetings.

They are also working closely with other organizations, including those supporting First Nations and northern communities, and will send out emergency alerts if needed.

It is noted that conditions can change quickly along rivers in the spring, which is why being prepared and practicing safety as ice melts is essential.

A successful delivery of essential supplies to Pukatawagan is highlighting the partnerships behind the effort.

The Knights of Columbus mission brought beds, wheelchairs for nursing stations, and winter coats for children into the northern community using winter roads.

State Deputy Mark DeJardins says collaboration played a major role in making the mission possible.

Organizers also worked with people familiar with the north to better understand community needs and logistics ahead of the trip.

The mission relied heavily on volunteers and coordination, showing how multiple groups coming together can help reach remote communities with essential support.

A woman from Thompson is dead following a head-on crash north of the city.

RCMP say the collision happened just after 10 a.m. on Friday, March 20th, along Highway 280, about 80 kilometres north of Thompson.

Investigators say two trucks were involved, including one pulling a trailer carrying a small excavator.

Police believe a southbound truck, driven by a 48-year-old Thompson woman, tried to pass a semi when it was unsafe and collided head-on with a northbound vehicle.

The woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the northbound truck, a 23-year-old man from Gimli, was taken to hospital with injuries.

RCMP say no charges are expected. Snow-covered roads and reduced visibility are believed to have been factors in the crash.

The Manitoba NDP says its MLA, Amanda Lathlin, who represented the Pas–Kameesak riding, has passed away.

In a statement, the party described her as a tireless advocate for families and for people in northern Manitoba.

Lathlin made history in 2015 as the first First Nations woman elected to Manitoba’s legislative assembly.

The statement also noted that earlier this year, while in hospital, she became a proud grandmother for the first time.

Berens River RCMP are investigating a homicide following a fatal stabbing in the community.

Police say that on Friday, March 20th, at approximately 9:07 a.m., officers responded to a report of a stabbing at a residence in Berens River First Nation. When officers arrived, they located a 15-year-old male suffering from injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His death is now being investigated as a homicide.

RCMP are asking anyone with information that may assist investigators to contact the Berens River RCMP detachment at 204-382-2436.

Berens River RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crime Services, continue to investigate.

Flin Flon RCMP are investigating a suspicious death following an incident last week.

Police say that on Monday, March 16th, at approximately 11:55 a.m., officers responded to a report of an unresponsive woman at a residence on Hill Street in Flin Flon. When officers arrived, they located a 31-year-old woman, who was pronounced dead at the scene.

The death is being treated as suspicious, and the investigation remains ongoing.

RCMP are asking anyone with information that may assist investigators to contact the Flin Flon RCMP detachment at 204-687-1422.

Flin Flon RCMP, along with RCMP Major Crime Services, continue to investigate.

There are two big events in the works with local fire departments.

This weekend, the The Pas and OCN fire departments, along with the Manitoba Emergency Management Organization, will be hosting a wildfire safety information session.

This weekend’s event will take place at the Roy H. Johnston Arena from 1 to 3 pm and is free to attend.

Vice Chief Jacob Geddes explains why it’s important to be prepared.

Geddes said there is a lot of interesting information that will be shared, and it is often forgotten or overlooked.

A few weeks later, The Pas Fire Department will host its annual fundraiser, the Fireman’s Ball, which will take place at the Wescana Inn on April 11th, and tickets can be purchased through the department now.

Thompson RCMP seized a large amount of cash following a compliance check earlier this week.

On March 17th, officers from the General Investigative Section, along with the Crime Reduction Enforcement Support Team, attended a residence on Riverside Drive in Thompson. The visit was to check on a 27-year-old man who was subject to multiple court-ordered release conditions.

When officers entered the home, they found six people inside and observed a significant amount of cash.

All six occupants, four men and two women, were arrested and removed while police secured the residence and obtained a search warrant.

Following that search, officers seized approximately 110-thousand dollars in cash, along with several cell phones.

Two men from Thompson are facing charges, while the four other individuals found in the home have since been released without charges.

RCMP say the investigation is ongoing.

Residents in The Pas are invited to celebrate the season with a family-friendly Easter event this weekend.

The Pas Kinettes Club, in partnership with Jordan’s Principle, is hosting a “Brunch with the Easter Bunny” on Saturday, March 21st. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall.

The brunch is open to the tri-community and aims to bring families together for a fun and festive gathering. Children can attend for free, while adult tickets are priced at five dollars.

Attendees are reminded that tickets must be purchased in advance.

For more information or to reserve tickets, residents can contact Amanda Chudyk at 204-978-0518.

The Junior Chief and Council Elections are taking place today in OCN.

Voting will be held throughout the day at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate, located in the school lobby.

The election is open to OCN youth between the ages of 13 and 29. Eligible participants may cast one vote for Junior Chief.

There will be no Councillor positions on the ballot, as those roles have already been filled by acclamation.

Voting will run from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Manitoba RCMP and the Manitoba First Nations Police Service have carried out a joint operation, targeting drug trafficking and gang activity in The Pas and on Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

Police say the three-day operation, which ran from February 23rd to 25th, involved the execution of six search warrants at residential properties in the two communities.

The effort brought together officers from multiple units, including the Manitoba Integrated Law Enforcement Team North, MFNPS, RCMP from The Pas detachment, as well as the Roving Traffic Unit and Emergency Response Team.

As a result of the operation, five individuals have been arrested, and what police describe as a drug trafficking network has been disrupted.

Officers seized quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine, along with ammunition, cash, and drug paraphernalia.

Police say the investigation remains ongoing, with additional arrests and charges expected.

The Manitoba First Nations Police Service has launched a new pilot project aimed at boosting safety in First Nation communities across the province.

The Crime Reduction and Enforcement Unit, known as CREU, is a specialized team focused on intelligence-led policing and targeted enforcement. The unit will tackle key issues like illegal firearms, drug trafficking, and gang activity.

Police say the initiative will also support harm-reduction efforts and strengthen partnerships with other agencies to respond to emerging threats.

Chief of Police Jason Colon says the new unit allows officers to take a more proactive approach while staying grounded in the values of the communities they serve.

The one-year pilot will be evaluated for effectiveness, with plans to expand into a permanent program if successful.

The service says the project is part of its broader strategy to modernize policing and improve safety across all 12 communities it serves.

The annual Opaskwayak Indigenous Days celebration is once again preparing for one of its most anticipated cultural events, the Indigenous Days Princess Pageant.

Held each August in Opaskwayak Cree Nation, the pageant is an important tradition that celebrates Cree culture, youth leadership, and community pride.

The various categories include the senior, junior, tiny tots, and angel categories, which are open to girls ages 5 to 18.

Contestants who enter the pageant take part in a number of activities throughout the festival week. Participants introduce themselves on stage; give short speeches about their culture or community, and present traditional clothing or regalia.

To enter the pageant, you can contact Nicole Ducharme-Chief at 431-355-0476.

Once registered, contestants must attend orientation meetings and practice sessions to prepare for the event.

On the night of the pageant, judges evaluate contestants on qualities such as confidence, cultural pride, community involvement, and their ability to represent Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

Winners in each age category are crowned and go on to serve as cultural ambassadors for the year.

Oscar Lathlin Collegiate has announced new safety measures aimed at improving security for students and staff.

In a letter sent to parents, Principal Harvey Asmus explained that the school has recently hired two additional security personnel, bringing the total number of in-house security staff to five.

The school has also installed a walk-through metal detector at the main entrance, and Manitoba First Nations Police Service will be conducting periodic walk-throughs inside the school as part of the enhanced safety plan.

School officials say they will be holding emergency preparedness rehearsals throughout the school year. These drills are intended to help both staff and students respond quickly and effectively if an emergency occurs.

The first rehearsal is scheduled to take place today.

The goal of these measures is to maintain a safe learning environment for everyone at Oscar Lathlin Collegiate.

University College of the North in The Pas and Thompson offers Early Childhood Education courses throughout the year.

For anyone interested in working in a childcare facility, ECE coordinator Laura Ayers explains what an Early Childhood Educator does.

UCN offers three levels of training for those looking to enter the field.

The first is a 40-hour evening course that runs throughout the year and introduces the basics of working in child care.

The second option is the two-year full-time diploma program, which leads to the provincial ECE Level II designation. The next intake for that program will take place in The Pas and Thompson this September.

The third pathway is for those who already have one to two years of experience working in childcare. Students can apply for the Early Learning and Child Care Certificate, an 18-month program that leads to ECE Level III designation. That program runs semi-annually and will be offered again early next year.

UCN also offers a workplace training program, and a new version is starting in The Pas. Students will spend two days a week in class and three days working in a childcare centre, gaining experience while completing their studies.

More information about the Early Childhood Education programs and available support services can be found at UCN.ca.

Police in Swan River, Manitoba, Canada, are investigating a home invasion that happened late Tuesday night.

RCMP say officers were called around 10:15 pm. on March 11 to a home in the community.

A couple in their mid-60s were inside when they heard a knock at the door. Before they could answer it, two masked suspects, a man and a woman, forced their way into the home.

Police say one of the suspects was carrying a firearm and pushed past one of the homeowners.

Investigators say the female suspect threatened to shoot the couple if they didn’t follow instructions, then robbed the couple, and no one was injured.

Mounties later arrested a 41-year-old woman a short distance from the home. She’s facing charges including robbery with a firearm, breaking and entering, and uttering threats, while they search for the second suspect.

RCMP investigations are ongoing.

The University College of the North has been named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers for the third year in a row.

The annual competition, organized by the editors of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, highlights workplaces across the province that stand out for their employee support and workplace culture.

Employers are evaluated in several areas, including workplace environment, benefits, vacation and time off, employee communication, training and skills development, and community involvement.

The college was recognized for encouraging healthy lifestyles, offering progressive work-life policies, and providing tuition subsidies that help employees continue their education.

UCN says its staff are one of the institution’s greatest strengths, and the recognition reflects its efforts to create a supportive and rewarding workplace.

The 2026 list of Manitoba’s Top Employers was published online in partnership with the Winnipeg Free Press and is organized by Toronto-based publisher Mediacorp Canada Inc.

The University College of the North provides post-secondary education and training opportunities for communities across northern Manitoba

This week, Town of The Pas Mayor Andre Murphy spoke with CJAR about several ongoing community projects.

In the interview, Murphy also addressed the ongoing issues with the recycling center, noting that it may still take a few months before the facility becomes operational again.

In 2025, the town recycled 395 metric tons of waste at a cost of $1,050 per metric ton. This amounts to about 10% of the town's waste stream, which is currently being diverted to the landfill.

Murphy emphasized that getting the recycling center back up and running is a top priority for the Tri-Community Recycling Board, which is working hard to re-staff the facility as soon as possible.

The next council meeting will take place on March 23rd.

In an effort to address increasing criminal activity, the Opaskwayak Cree Nation has introduced a semi-lockdown, effective March 12th, through May 17th. This measure follows a rise in incidents, including gang violence and drug-related offences, within the community.

The lockdown will be in effect from 2:00 AM to 6:00 AM daily. During these hours, individuals entering or leaving the community will be questioned by security personnel regarding their reasons for being out during the restricted period.

This initiative is intended to increase safety and reduce crime in the area. Public Safety Officers will continue to operate around the clock, and the community is being asked to report any suspicious activities, particularly during the overnight hours.

Those who do not comply with the new restrictions may face a $500 fine for first-time violations. Additional fines may apply for repeat offences. Residents can reach out to Public Safety at 431-355-0072 for more details or to report any concerns.

A community meeting aimed at shaping future Pride celebrations will take place in The Pas tonight.

Tri-Community Pride, in partnership with the Pas Community Renewal Corporation, is inviting residents to attend a Community Consultation tonight at 1 St. Goddard Avenue, next to Snakland.

The consultation runs from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and will give community members a chance to share ideas and help plan upcoming Pride events in the region.

Refreshments will be available during the consultation.

Following the discussion, the Tri-Community Pride Committee will hold a meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in getting involved with Pride initiatives or supporting future events is welcome to stay and participate.

Organizers say the meeting is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen support for the LGBTQ+ community, promote inclusion, and ensure Pride activities reflect the voices of people across the Tri-Community area.

Helping protect the environment starts at home with recycling, and statistics show that 80 percent of households have unused electronic waste sitting around.

The UCN Sustainability Committee is hosting an E-waste recycling event at UCN all next week.

E-waste includes old electronics that may have been discarded, whether working or broken, and can contain toxic chemicals as well as reusable precious metals.

Accepted items include TVs, computers, tablets, monitors, cell phones, and more. A full list of acceptable items can be found at recyclemyelectronics.ca.

Anyone dropping off recyclables will be entered into prize draws for a chance to win prizes.

The collection will take place in the front foyer at UCN. For larger items, visitors can come in through the front entrance and ask for assistance bringing items in from their vehicles.

Drop-offs will be accepted daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.

A special gathering aimed at connecting generations is coming to Opaskwayak Cree Nation this spring.

The Opaskwayak Cree Nation Traditional Youth and Elders Conference, called Connecting Wisdom, will take place March 17th, 18th, and 19th at the OCN Veterans’ Hall on Waller Road.

The conference will bring together youth, community members, and Elders for discussions focused on Cree teachings, culture, and the experiences of different generations. Topics include promoting education, addressing bullying, inspiring youth, acceptance, and community safety.

The event will also feature inspirational guest speakers, including Canada’s Got Talent Season 3 winner Rebecca Strong, artist and Canada’s Drag Race Season 3 performer Chelazon Leroux, Fancy Bustle dancer Quinton Martin, commercial pilot Kimberly Ballantyne, and Tahnee Flett, who will help lead a family-led Pow Wow demonstration.

The conference is open to the public with free registration. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 9 each morning, and lunch will be provided daily.

For more information, people can contact organizers at 204-627-7130 or email kalen.cook@opaskwayak.ca.

Following last week’s Handi-Van Pledge Show at CJAR, approximately $20,000 was raised in support of the van and the community members who rely on the service.

The show wrapped up Friday morning, but not before a generous $5,000 donation came in from longtime supporter Bill Hedberg, bringing the total raised to $21,613.

The successful fundraiser would not have been possible without the support of local community members, businesses, and organizations. The funds will be used to help maintain the service in The Pas.

Handi-Van staff and board members extend their thanks to everyone for their continued support.

Excitement and big catches highlighted this year’s Jimmy Jackfish Ice Fishing Derby on Saturday.

More than 400 anglers took part in the event, with dozens of fish brought to the measuring tent throughout the day.

The biggest moment came shortly after one o’clock when an angler sprinted across the ice in snowshoes carrying a bucket with a massive northern pike. The fish measured 84 centimetres and ultimately secured first place for Kristian Flannigan.

Martin Ouellette finished second with a 77-centimetre pike, while Paul Pillipow took third with a 71-centimetre catch.

Josh Adams also claimed the “Wilma Walleye” side-bet prize with a 44-centimetre walleye.

Meanwhile, the popular 50-50 draw topped two thousand dollars and was won by an angler who had travelled from southern Saskatchewan.

Organizers thanked volunteers, sponsors and anglers for helping make the long-running community derby another success.

Community Futures Cedar Lake Region is calling on young entrepreneurs to get ready for business.

Registration is now open for the Second Annual Children’s Business Fair, happening Saturday, May 9th, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event will take place during the annual Trade Show hosted by The Pas OCN Chamber of Commerce.

The fair is open to children between the ages of 6 and 12 who have a product they’d like to sell. Participants will have the opportunity to set up and decorate their own booth, sell their own products, and gain hands-on experience running a small business.

Registration is open until Friday, April 10th. To sign up, visit cfmanitoba.ca/cedar-lake or scan the QR code on the official event poster.

For additional details, families can call 204-627-5450 or email admin@cedarlakecfdc.com.

The Children’s Business Fair is part of Community Futures’ ongoing efforts to invest in youth and strengthen the region’s future business community.

A reminder for First Nations families in the region: you may be eligible for compensation through the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle Settlement.

According to the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, individuals who were removed from their homes while under the age of majority between April 1st, 1991 and March 31st, 2022, could qualify for up to forty thousand dollars.

The removal must have occurred while the child or their caregiving grandparents resided on reserve or living in Yukon, with placements funded by Indigenous Services Canada.

Caregiving parents and grandparents may also be eligible under the Removed Child Family Class.

A free information session takes place March 6th and 7th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Opaskwayak Veterans Hall. Claims helpers will be on site, and attendees should bring government-issued identification. Light lunch and beverages will be provided while supplies last.

The deadline to apply for adults is March 10th, 2028. For children, the deadline is three years after turning 18.

More information is available at fnchildclaims.ca.

Keeping the Handi-Van on the road requires regular maintenance, especially with the wear and tear it sees throughout the year.

This Thursday and Friday, 102.9 CJAR will host its annual radio pledge show in support of the non-profit service. The broadcast runs from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. both days.

Val Miron, joined by other representatives, will talk about the van’s impact, the people behind the service, and why community support is so important.

If you’d like to make a donation, tune in Thursday and Friday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Pledges will also be accepted at the CJAR offices during the broadcast.

Clearwater Lake Provincial Park is inviting families to get outside and embrace winter with two special programs this weekend.

On Saturday, March 7th, from 1 to 4 p.m., “Snug Shelters” takes place at the Campers Cove Campground Entrance.

Visitors will learn how to build a traditional snow Quinzhee and explore the history and science behind these cozy winter shelters.

While the shelters set, participants can gather around the fire to make bannock. You are asked to dress warmly and bring a bowl for mixing.

Then on Sunday, March 8th, from 1 to 3 p.m., the park hosts “Crystal Caves,” a guided one-kilometre winter hike from the Cavers Trailhead.

Discover stunning rock formations and ice sculptures before warming up with a campfire hot dog roast.

Later in March, a campfire and stargazing event will happen on the 21^st.

All events are free, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

To register, contact the park office at 431-355-0223.

Manitoba First Nations Police are investigating a forcible confinement case in Opaskwayak Cree Nation.

On February 27th, around 6 p.m., officers were called to a residence at Otineka Mall after reports of a suspicious person. They found an adult male who had been seriously assaulted and held against his will for several hours at a nearby residence on Mikisew Street.

Four adults were arrested and remanded into custody, facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault, assault with a weapon, forcible confinement, and involvement in a criminal organization. Those arrested are Delaney Ballantyne, Maximus Ballantyne, Cory Tyler Harris, and Hansen Dorion.

Warrants have been issued for two others wanted in connection to the case, Shontelle Easter of Moose Lake and Byron McGillivary of Opaskwayak Cree Nation, both of whom face similar serious charges.

Police urge anyone with information on these individuals to contact Manitoba First Nations Police at 204-623-8200 or call 9-1-1. The public is warned not to approach the suspects.

This remains an active investigation.

After years of suffering, an inquest into a train derailment that was fatal for one and caused lifelong injuries to another is finally underway.

The derailment took place near Ponton, Manitoba, approximately 145 kilometres southwest of Thompson, on September 15th, 2018.

It was at 3:30 p.m. that day that the train veered off the rails, injuring its two passengers.

Kevin Anderson and Chris Rushton were left stranded and injured for over nine hours before rescue eventually arrived.

By that time, Anderson had suffered extensive bleeding and later succumbed to his injuries.

Reports stated that had rescue crews arrived sooner, his injuries were survivable.

The inquest began yesterday.

Residents in The Pas are being urged to attend an upcoming Municipal Board hearing regarding a proposed change to how RCMP services are funded in the community.

The hearing is scheduled for March 4th, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at the Town of The Pas Council Chambers, 81 Edwards Avenue.

At issue is Special Service Levy Proposal By-Law No. 4664, which would remove RCMP costs from the general municipal mill rate and instead fund them through a Special Service Levy.

Currently, all municipal services, including RCMP services, are collected through the general mill rate, which distributes costs based on a property’s assessed value.

Opponents of the proposal argue that the change would not increase or decrease the total amount collected for RCMP services. However, they say it would shift the financial burden, with homeowners of lower assessed properties paying more and owners of higher assessed homes paying less.

It’s estimated that 53 percent of residential taxpayers would face higher taxes under the proposal.

Again, the hearing takes place on March 4th at 9:30 a.m. at the Civic Centre Council Chambers.