WHAT IS NBC?
In 2022, the Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Chiefs directed NAPS to develop a pilot program targeting the escalating drug crisis.
This NAPS Border Control, or “NBC”, pilot is now being rolled out across a number of pilot communities, where specially trained Special Constables have been deployed to support searches of all incoming travellers.
If drugs are found, NAPS has the authority to seize drugs, arrest individuals, lay criminal charges, and, where appropriate, effect the removal of trespassers.
WHAT IF I OBJECT TO BEING SEARCHED?
Anyone who does not wish to be searched has the option to return to their departure point.
However, if you wish to enter the community, be aware that you will be searched.
Notice of search has been extensively publicized at connecting airports, community entry points, and inside each of the pilot communities. All travellers should consider themselves on notice that they will be searched.
THE PILOT COMMUNITIES
The initial rollout of NBC will take place across five pilot communities:
- Eabametoong First Nation
- Kasabonika Lake First Nation
- Kashechewan First Nation
- Sachigo Lake First Nation
- Sandy Lake First Nation
NAPS also plans to expand the pilot into additional communities over the next few years. If your community is interested in participating in the NBC “pilot” project, please contact the Office of the Chief of Police.
THE CHIEFS’ RESOLUTION AND BCRs
On August 11, 2022, the NAN Chiefs adopted a Resolution directing NAPS to work with communities to develop strategies for search-and-seizures, identify community entry points, and recruit/train Special Constables to support the NBC pilot.
Each of the pilot communities has also adopted a Band Council Resolution (BCR) formally authorizing an NBC pilot in their community.
Copies of the 2022 Chiefs’ Resolution, and each of the BCRs adopted by the five First Nation pilot communities, can be found here: