PIB declares drug crisis, promises to boot dealers

Elected leaders of the Penticton Indian Band say they will “take every step necessary” to put an end to the current drug crisis and rid the reserve of such illegal substances, following another recent overdose death.

Although short on details, a statement issued late Friday by chief and council explains the band is grieving “the loss of another member to the current opioid and drug crisis,” although it doesn’t explain when the person died or how many others have been lost to overdoses.

The statement goes on, however, to note the 2013 Comprehensive Community Plan included a goal to make the reserve drug- and alcohol-free.

It appears chief and council now intend to double down on making that happen.

“Those that sell drugs to our members will be met with the full force of a community that is not willing to accept this behaviour and will use everything at its means to stop any and all drug activity in our community,” says the statement. “The community and families have spoken loud.” As a result, the band “will not tolerate any illegal drugs being sold or used, recreationally or habitually,” within its boundaries; seek help from the Okanagan Nation Alliance; and mobilize members and partners “to address the current opioid epidemic and fentanyl contamination.”

Chief Chad Eneas could not be reached for comment Sunday, although he pledged in the release to involve community members in the response.

“We will take every step necessary to protect our members. In the upcoming days, weeks and months we will be bringing the families together and find ways to overcome the challenges we may face to support each other,” Eneas is quoted as saying.

According to the Comprehensive Community Plan, members shared a vision to be a drug- and alcohol-free reserve within 20 years.

“One of the biggest community concerns for the Penticton Indian band is the effect that drugs and alcohol has on our community. This has been identified as a priority,” states the plan.

It goes on to list six action items to address the goal, such as drug awareness marches and information sessions, sober block parties and more outreach to help people in recovery.