Photo Courtesy Alberta RCMP

By Tanner Smith

Wildfires

Alberta RCMP up-scaling protection of people and their property during wildfires

May 19, 2023 | 3:37 PM

Alberta RCMP says updating the public on what Mounties have been doing so far in Alberta, along with the services they will continue to deliver during a time of increased wildfire activity.

RCMP’s Special Technical Operations Unit and General Duty officers have been and continue to monitor checkpoints, patrol evacuated communities, help residents get away from fires and share important safety information with all Albertans.

As of May 17, 12 priority offenders have been taken into custody or removed from various communities, and 28 break-and-enters or trespasses have been reported to Mounties.

Investigations are underway and 12 charges have already been laid.

Superintendent Blake Ward said in a release, “Specialized Crime Reduction Units from Central, Eastern, and Western Alberta districts are tasked with the tracking, monitoring, and apprehension of prolific offenders and other individuals who might, unfortunately, see the wildfires as an opportunity to create more problems for people.”

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The RCMP added that their uniform officers remain grateful they can serve local residents and their neighbors, in the same communities we all live, work, and play, using our collective strength to rebuild those areas affected by the fires.

Ward added in the same release, “What has been so incredibly humbling over the last couple of weeks” is our interactions with the residents, who, despite going through a stressful and emotionally taxing situation, took the time to recognize that we are here to help; the thumbs up, or the thank you when you’re passing a checkpoint.”

RCMP say they will continue to work with town council partners, municipal districts, and First Nations to serve and protect these communities until it’s safe for residents to return.