Police said on Friday evening Behchokǫ̀’s shelter-in-place order had been lifted after most of the day was spent pursuing up to six individuals reported to be armed.
RCMP said the individuals were believed to be part of a “targeted attack,” though no injuries were reported to police.
Schools and other buildings in the community spent eight hours or more locked down, with meals being delivered to children through the evening before school doors could be reopened for dismissal hours after class ended.
By the early evening, after more than six hours locked down, Chief Jimmy Bruneau School told parents students were safe and “in great spirits.”
While police said “several individuals” had been arrested, the number who remained at large was not clear.
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“As a result of further investigation and a thorough risk assessment, police believe it is safe at this time to allow residents to resume normal activities,” RCMP stated at 8:30pm.
“The investigation is continuing. An increased police presence will continue to be visible in the community. However, the RCMP has reasonable grounds to believe that this was a targeted attack.
“Residents are asked to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity or information related to this investigation to the Behchokǫ̀ RCMP at 867-392-1111, or 911 in an emergency.”
A drone unit, dog unit, crime reduction unit and emergency response team were all called in – alongside backup general duty officers – after a critical incident was declared late on Friday morning.
A check stop was set up outside the community as the operation wore on.
RCMP have asked for anyone with evidence like photos or video to send them via this link.
