Have you noticed any American helicopters in the sky?
The United States Border Patrol is carrying out proactive patrols along the Canada-U.S. border near Sault Ste. Marie to “ensure the safety and integrity of the international border,” said a press release from Garden River First Nation.
Set to take place on Feb. 11 and 12, OPP have requested that citizens do not call police about the helicopters, the release said.
Chief Karen Bell said OPP informed the First Nation about the patrols, noting there is “no concern from a nation perspective” and that it’s not the first time patrols have taken place.
“During summer months, U.S.A. and Canadian law enforcement vessels constantly send assets on the waterways,” she said.
“The safety and integrity of the international border is and always has been of great importance to law enforcement.”
While the OPP had no additional information to share about the United States Border Patrol exercise, East Algoma OPP Const. Bev Gauthier said the police service has joined a domestic effort to shore up the international border.
“The OPP joined Operation Deterrence on Dec. 6, 2024, a nationwide initiative focused on addressing the illegal trafficking of drugs, weapons, and humans crossing into the United States,” she said.
OPP are working with numerous agencies locally, on St. Joseph Island, and beyond as part of this work, Gauthier said.
“Our efforts will be coordinated with partners such as the RCMP, CBSA, and other intelligence units to identify key locations of concern. The Sault Ste. Marie and Manitoulin Detachments are also part of this initiative and will be supported by specialized services and equipment.”
SooToday captured video footage of one helicopter, although it was unclear if it was with the U.S. Border Patrol.