Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg passes historic trespassing law

First Nation takes charge of community safety by passing its first law in coordination with law enforcement

NETMIZAAGGAMIG  NISHNAABEG – On Tuesday, September 3, Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg (NN) Chief, Council, and Leadership passed the Trespassing and Safety Naaknigewin (law), historic legislation to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. The Naaknigewin is the first of its kind to be passed by the nation and provides new, legally enforceable measures to patrol, remove and prosecute people who enter the Territory illegally or violate community laws.

The decision is a direct response to the State of Emergency declared last Fall by NN leadership over concerns for community welfare stemming from rising drug activity, violence and related crime, which threatens our youth, Elders and families.

“Our first responsibility is to keep our people safe,” said Chief Louis Kwissiwa of Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg. “This Naaknigewin gives police the clear authority they need to act quickly and fairly when individuals refuse to respect our community, our laws, and our right to live in safety.”

The community has struggled to meet the growing policing demands due to a lack of engagement by provincial and federal governments in meeting their treaty obligations. NN took extraordinary steps to preserve law and order, with support from Anishinabek Police Services (APS), including the installation of security cameras, licence plate readers, and the retention of external emergency security services. But this was a band-aid solution to a much larger issue and was financially unsustainable.

“The Anishinabek Police Service supports NN’s Naaknigewin to ensure the safety and security of their community. First Nation Communities have the inherent right to pass their own laws. Today is historic as NN and APS work together on protecting the people,” said APS Chief Jeff Skye.

What the Naaknigewin does:

Defines trespass on NN Territory, including: entering without permission; remaining after being directed to leave; returning while subject to a ban or exclusion order; and engaging in criminal activity that threatens public safety.

Empowers police to verify identity, issue lawful directions to leave, and remove trespassers from community lands.

Creates offences and penalties, enabling charges and prosecution for repeated or serious violations.

Provides for bans/exclusion orders where warranted, with clear processes for notice, duration, and appeal.

Police may request identification, assess circumstances, and issue a direction to leave. If a person refuses or returns while banned, officers may remove the person and recommend charges under the Trespassing Naaknigewin and/or applicable criminal statutes. Officers will document interactions to support transparency, accountability, and any needed court proceedings. The Naaknigewin includes appeal pathways for bans and ensures reasonable accommodations for emergency or extenuating circumstances.

“This is one tool among many,” said Paul Michtics, Director of Safety and Security for Pic Mobert First Nation. “We will continue investing in prevention, harm reduction, and healing—while making it clear that predatory behaviour has no place on our Territory.”

Why now?

In recent months, community leaders documented increased incidents linked to trafficking and organized crime, alongside gaps in police responses. Drug trafficking by gangs has increased rates of addiction, overdoses, sex trafficking and violent crime. Suicide rates are rising, and substance use issues are worsening, with the nearest detox beds over four hours away and with long wait lists.

The Council’s decision is part of a broader safety plan that includes:

Ongoing requests for additional policing resources and coordinated support from provincial and federal partners to disrupt and prevent crime in the Territory;

Expanded prevention and treatment programs, youth outreach, and support for people seeking mental health and addiction services;

Equitable service delivery to provide Netmizaaggamig Nishnaabeg with the same level of support that other Ontarians demand and expect.