RCMP open file, pledge to support Tk’emlups te Secwepemc on residential school discovery

TK’EMLUPS — The Tk’emlups Rural RCMP detachment has opened a file related to the discovery of children’s remains near the former Kamloops Indian Residential School.

In a news release distributed Thursday evening (June 3), Detachment Commander Staff Sgt. Bill Wallace says officers have met with Tk’emlups te Secwepemc leaders since the discovery was announced on May 27.

“The Tk’emlúps Rural RCMP has attended the site, participated in meetings, and will continue working closely with the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc community leaders in determining the next steps and the best way to be involved in any investigative avenues explored going forward, while at the same time being supportive, respectful, and culturally sensitive to the indigenous communities that are impacted,” said Wallace.

Tk’emlups Chief Rosanne Casimir revealed last Thursday that ground-penetrating radar has revealed the location of the remains of 215 children, believed to have been students at the residential school.

Wallace says RCMP met with Tk’emlups officials on Monday (May 31) and confirmed the First Nation is the lead agency in relation to the discovery. He notes the detachment will continue to support the Tk’emlups in determining next steps.