On May 21, 2020, the COVID-19 security CheckStop to the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation received information that a known bootlegger was expected to be transporting alcohol into the community.
The CheckStop was the only entrance into the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and the RCMP were notified the vehicle would be stopped and searched by the Community Safety Officers and Peter Ballantyne Security.
A search was conducted of a truck stopped at the CheckStop by security personnel and numerous bottles of alcohol were located within the vehicle:
· 6x 1.75 L of whiskey
· 25x 375 ml of whiskey
· 1x 750 ml of vodka
· 1x 750 ml of whiskey
· 26x 500 ml bottles of a mix of water and whiskey
The leadership of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation has determined that the illegal distribution of alcohol is a serious health risk within the community during the current Public Health Order and a priority for the security patrols to assist in reducing illegal alcohol in the community.
Two adult males and one female, all from the Pelican Narrows area, have been charged under Section 138(1) of the Saskatchewan Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act.
