Manitoba government has taken a significant step to bolster security along its southern border with the United States.
Premier Wab Kinew announced that Manitoba conservation officers are now actively patrolling the border to support efforts by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
“Our government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our southern border,” said Kinew.
“With Manitoba conservation officers joining the RCMP and CBSA, we’re doing our part to crack down on drug trafficking, prevent unsafe crossings, and potentially save lives.”
Conservation officers stationed in Virden, Boissevain, Manitou, Winnipeg, Steinbach, and Sprague are conducting patrols along secondary roads and remote backcountry areas between ports of entry.
To support their efforts, the province is deploying specialized equipment, including snowmobiles, utility terrain vehicles, and helicopters.
Chief Conservation Officer Corey Meadows emphasized the officers readiness and expertise in contributing to the multi-agency border security effort.
“Our officers are expertly trained peace officers with the authority to enforce a variety of acts and regulations,” Meadows said.
“We are committed to stopping the smuggling of firearms, drugs, and people while enhancing public safety and resource protection.”
Premier Kinew also highlighted the humanitarian aspect of these efforts.
“Unsafe crossings can be dangerous and even deadly,” Kinew said.
“If there’s a child or family in danger near the border, we’re going to make sure help is there. But if someone is smuggling drugs or guns, we’re going to stop them.”
The patrols will focus on identifying illegal crossings and suspicious activity, with officers working alongside the RCMP to enforce laws under the Criminal Code of Canada and the provincial Highway Traffic Act.
This enhanced approach aims to strengthen border security to address President Donald Trump’s concerns of illegal immigration and drugs entering the United States, while also addressing both safety and humanitarian concerns along the border.
