An increased police presence in the Balsam Street area of Sheshegwaning First Nation on Manitoulin Island was lifted late Wednesday evening, though the investigation remains active. The Ontario Provincial Police and the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service responded to an active police incident in the area earlier in the day, prompting a shelter-in-place order for nearby residents. The initial advisory was issued at approximately 3:33 p.m., when OPP advised the public of a heavy police presence on Balsam Street. “Residents in the immediate area are asked to stay indoors, keep doors and windows locked, and avoid the area until further notice,” the OPP said in its initial social-media post. UCCM Anishnaabe Police later issued a public safety notice confirming that officers were responding to an active incident. The notice asked residents in the immediate area to remain inside their homes, lock all doors and windows, avoid approaching the police scene, and follow any directions provided by officers on the ground. Public advised to avoid area Just before 7 p.m., OPP confirmed that the increased police presence remained in place and advised the public to continue avoiding the area. Residents were also encouraged to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 to report any suspicious activities. At that time, police said more updates would follow. While the shelter-in-place order applied to the immediate Balsam Street area, authorities stressed that the situation was contained. “At this time, there is no known threat to the general public outside the immediate area,” the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service said in its news release shortly after 4 p.m., adding that police were asking everyone to stay away from the scene to allow officers to safely carry out their duties. Scene turned over to UCCM Anishnaabe police Just before 11 p.m., the OPP announced that the increased police presence had been lifted. “Members of the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service remain on scene as the investigation continues,” the OPP said. “There is no threat to public safety.” UCCM Anishnaabe Police confirmed the incident remains an active police investigation. “Additional information will be released when it is appropriate to do so,” the First Nation police service said. UCCM Anishnaabe police also thanked the public for their cooperation and understanding during the shelter-in-place. No further details about the nature of the incident have been released. Police have not indicated whether any injuries or arrests are involved.
