Eabametoong residents fear for their safety: chief

Dozens of arsons, animal mutilations and three murders already this year have residents of Eabametoong First Nation fearing for their safety.
The community, which has an on-reserve population of about 1,200, declared a state of emergency Oct. 22 following a series of violent crimes.
“The situation in our community has escalated out of control and is now so serious that many people sleep with a fire extinguisher beside them, fearful that their home could be set on fire next,” said Chief Lewis Nate. “No one should have to live like this, it’s devastating.”
Since January, there have been three murders in the community, several cases of animals being mutilated and nearly four-dozen arsons, including one recent fire that closed the First Nation’s school due to smoke damage, leaving local children without a learning facility.
Other arson attacks have been committed against local families while they are sleeping in their homes, Nate said.
“The people of Eabametoong are committed to working together to do whatever is needed to bring safety and order back to our community,” Nate said. “But we can’t do it alone; we are desperate for outside help.”
The community was also recently left without water for five days following a break-in into the water treatment facility.
Nate said community leaders were forced to shut off the water supply over concerns the drinking water had been contaminated.
“We need short-term support and resources to help us restore safety and address the violent element in our community today,” Nate said. “We need intervention workers to come to the aid of our troubled youth.”
Nate said a long-term plan must also be developed to address the root issues that are causing the youth to turn to violence.
“Without a long-term plan how can we be sure that this type of emergency will not occur again?” Nate said. “Please help us; please help the people of Eabametoong.”