On August 20th, 2023 the Yellowknife RCMP were made aware of a social media post that reported that a man and woman had reportedly broken into a residence and were seen walking through yards. The Yellowknife RCMP initiated an investigation and were able to identify the man seen in the post. RCMP attended the residence where the break and enter reportedly occurred and found signs of a break-in. RCMP officers entered and cleared the residence and located the man and woman sleeping inside the residence. Both the 30-year-old man from Yellowknife and the 23-year-old woman from Yellowknife, were arrested and are currently in custody. Charges of being unlawfully in a dwelling house are pending against both. These two individuals have been booked on evacuation flights and will released with conditions not to return to Yellowknife until the evacuation order is over.
"This social media post was widely shared today and has generated concern from people who have evacuated and, from essential workers who have remained behind," says Cpl. Matt Halstead, RCMP NT Media Relations, "I want to stress that this incident involves a break and enter into the residence one of the suspect's family members. No stolen property was located in the residence and at this time, there is no indication that these people were involved in other break-ins or looting. If people have concerns as a result of door bell or surveillance cameras, I would encourage them to contact us and we will investigate. While undoubtedly well intentioned, posts like this can cause further undue stress for people who have had to evacuate."
The Yellowknife RCMP's ranks have been significantly increased by the redeployment of officers to front line duties. The Yellowknife RCMP is well positioned to conduct patrols of property and follow up on information about potential break-ins.