The Kitikmeot Friendship Society in Nunavut has expressed concerns over the lack of clear information regarding a police investigation into the organization. The RCMP initiated the investigation on October 28, 2025, following a request from the Nunavut government. Sgt. George Henrie confirmed that the investigation is focused on the funding received by the society, but refrained from providing additional details due to the ongoing nature of the inquiry.
As a consequence of the investigation, several facilities operated by the Kitikmeot Friendship Society, including shelters in Cambridge Bay and Gjoa Haven, have been forced to cease operations. Daniel Lamberto Ambrosini, the society’s legal representative, described the investigation as unexpected and mentioned that they have not been informed about the specific nature or targets of the RCMP’s probe. Ambrosini highlighted the lack of communication from the police to the society and raised questions about the management and oversight of the investigation.
The Kitikmeot Friendship Society is also undergoing a financial audit, although specific details were not disclosed by Ambrosini. He expressed the society’s desire to arrange a meeting with the Nunavut government for further clarity. In response, Casey Lessard from Executive & Intergovernmental Affairs at the Nunavut government revealed that representatives of the society received an in-person briefing from government staff the day after the investigation began.
Following the launch of the police investigation, the Nunavut government’s Family Services and Health departments terminated all funding agreements with the society, resulting in the closure of five facilities in the Kitikmeot region. Lessard stated that efforts are being made to ensure that affected communities still have access to essential programs and services through collaboration with local partners.
