Sask RCMP sharing “Stories not Statistics”

Last week, in recognition of the 11th annual Missing Persons Week, which was from April 28 to May 4, Saskatchewan RCMP is honouring the thousands of people who go missing in the province each year. 

The theme of this year’s commemorative week is “Stories not Statistics” and aims to share the stories behind those people who go missing and the investigations that take place to help bring them home.

In 2023, 2,533 individuals were reported missing to detachments in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction. No two missing persons cases are the same and each investigation that takes place is treated as uniquely as the missing person themselves. Though all investigations have their own story, the desired outcome remains the same: bringing missing persons home to their families. Of the 550 missing males, 450 missing females and 1150 youths reported missing in 2023, Kristopher Billette of Buffalo River Dene Nation, Byron Watson of Maple Creek and William “Michael” Neuman of Canora remain missing. To learn more about them and Saskatchewan’s long-term missing persons click here.

Once an initial report is made, Saskatchewan RCMP investigators can bring in several highly-trained resources to assist as necessary. This includes police dog services, remotely piloted aerial vehicles, the search and rescue unit and more.

“There are many different circumstances that can lead to a missing persons report being made,” said Const. Brendan Sanford, Saskatchewan RCMP missing persons coordinator. 

“Those circumstances decide which of the Saskatchewan RCMP’s internal and partner resources are activated. However, the goal always remains the same, to bring Saskatchewan’s missing home.”

If you think you may know something, say something. Even if you think it may be insignificant, any piece of information may be what leads investigators to find the answers they need to locate someone. You can report information to your local police or information anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

Graham Brown, president of Lloydminster Concerned Citizens for Seniors Care Society, looks on as guest speaker Mayor Gerald Aalbers shared his thoughts on several issues at Tuesday’s meeting, including the replacement of the Jubilee Home, seniors housing and policing. Aalbers also fielded questions from seniors. The seniors group will hold its AGM on June 10 at the Legacy Centre at 10:30 a.m.

Geoff Lee Meridian Source