Police have urged individuals to steer clear of the Ginoogaming First Nation area and advised residents to stay indoors as they hunt for two armed and dangerous suspects on the loose. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and Anishinabek Police Service (APS) are actively involved in the response efforts, as per an OPP press release issued around 6 a.m. ET on Wednesday.
The suspects are both described as Black males, with one being taller than the other. The taller suspect is identified as wearing an all-grey jogging suit with braided hair, while the shorter one is seen in black pants and black shoes. Residents in Ginoogaming are instructed to seek refuge indoors, lock all entry points, and draw curtains for added safety.
In case of a sighting, the public is urged to immediately dial 911 and not engage with the suspects. Bill Dickson, the media relations coordinator for the OPP, mentioned that a significant number of officers from both the OPP and APS are actively scouring the area for the individuals. Dickson emphasized the importance of community cooperation and adherence to safety guidelines.
The search operation commenced following reports of gunshots in the area early Wednesday morning. No further details about the suspects or their reason for being in the area have been disclosed at this time. Greenstone’s deputy mayor, Matthew Donovan, acknowledged the concerns among residents and emphasized the need for public cooperation and vigilance during this challenging situation.
Some municipal services in Greenstone were temporarily closed, including the Friends of the North Daycare, Seniors Centre, and Municipal Ward Office in Longlac. Additionally, all public and Catholic elementary schools in Longlac and Long Lake #58 First Nation were shut down for the day. Confederation College’s Longlac campus was also closed as a precautionary measure.
Ginoogaming First Nation is located just south of Longlac, approximately 300 km northeast of Thunder Bay. Anyone with relevant information about the suspects is urged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
