The Manitoba First Nations Police Service (MFNPS) is asking the public for help after a break-in at the Healing Lodge in Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, Manitoba. The incident occurred on January 19, 2026, and community leaders say the facility is a vital part of local health and wellness programming.
The Healing Lodge provides culturally appropriate supports, mental-health services and addictions-prevention programming for residents. Some of those initiatives — including ceremonies, honoraria for Elders and supports aimed at reconnecting youth with tradition and identity — have received support from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, which helped resource the lodge’s youth and cultural programming.
MFNPS investigators say suspects gained unauthorized access to the building; officers are reviewing local surveillance footage and other forensic evidence as the investigation continues. MFNPS also recently announced a modernization step: on January 20, 2026 the service confirmed the full deployment and use of Axon body-worn cameras across all 12 MFNPS detachments. “Body-worn cameras are an important tool that will help us continue building strong, positive relationships with the communities we serve,” said Chief of Police Jason Colon in the MFNPS announcement.
Police are urging anyone who may have seen suspicious activity near the Healing Lodge on January 19 to contact MFNPS. The community of Sandy Bay posted a request for information directing people to MFNPS; tips can be submitted via the MFNPS tip line at 1-833-978-0048 or by email to TIPS@MFNP.CA. MFNPS has said information from the public is critical to identifying suspects and helping keep important community facilities safe while the investigation remains active.
