AKWESASNE MOHAWK POLICE SERVICE RECEIVES FUNDING FOR NEW INITIATIVE TO COMBAT FIREARMS TRAFFICKING
AKWESASNE — On June 9, 2022, Quebec’s Ministry of Public Safety announced that it is funding the Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service (AMPS) with $6.2 million to combat firearms trafficking over the next five years.
The funding is part of the Quebec government’s “Operation Centaur”, a $90 million commitment to reduce gun trafficking and armed violence.
At an event in Akwesasne, the Deputy Premier, Minister of Public Security and Minister responsible for the Capitale-Nationale region, Ms. Genevieve Guilbault, along with the Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, Mr. Ian Lafreniere, and the MP for Huntingdon, Mrs. Claire Isabelle, made the announcement of the grant to Akwesasne.
The investment aims to provide AMPS with five additional police officers, a new boat, all-terrain vehicles and snowmobiles to strengthen the fight against the illegal supply of firearms in the territory. The funding will also allow AMPS to increase their presence on the local rivers, both during summer and winter months.
QUOTES:
Grand Chief Abram Benedict:
“Additional funding can better equip our police department with the resources needed to continue to protect Akwesasne from being exploited by outside entities. Our community does not support gun violence and we support our police in their efforts to keep weapons out of our territory.”
AMPS Chief of Police Shawn Dulude:
“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Quebec’s desire to support First Nations by funding the material and human resources of Akwesasne Mohawk Police Service. Our team will thus be able to work to increase public security on the territory.”
Genevieve Guilbault, Deputy Premier, Minister of Public Security and Minister responsible for the Capitale-Nationa region:
“Since its deployment, CENTAURE has increased the pressure on criminal networks in Quebec. Numerous interventions have led to arrests and seizures of firearms. And it continues. I thank all the police forces who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of our citizens, including the Mohawk Police Service of Akwesasne for its participation in the concerted efforts in the fight against the smuggling of firearms.”
Ian Lafreniere, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs:
“Today’s announcement is good news for all citizens. It is also an important gesture to highlight the contribution of Aboriginal police forces, in particular that of Akwesasne, in the fight against criminality and organized crime. Indigenous police officers are major partners: their contribution allows us to better ensure, together, the safety and tranquility of communities across Quebec.”
Claire Isabelle, MP for Huntingdon:
“This financial support will allow the Mohawk Police Service of Akwesasne to increase its human and material resources to better support it in the fight against crime. What’s more, his actions will promote safer places for the community of Akwesasne and the surrounding region. It’s another proof that our communities can work together successfully for the benefit of all Quebecers.”
