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FORT MCMURRAY — Wood Buffalo RCMP say they currently have six active child assault investigations underway in the region.
Police say they cannot provide further details because the category covers multiple forms of abuse and releasing information could identify victims. They also say they cannot compare the number of cases to other regions because they do not have access to data from other police services.
As debate around vigilante action circulates in the community, RCMP are urging families to focus on prevention, supervision and proper reporting. Officers say community safety depends on steady, practical steps that help protect children at home, in public and online.
Police recommend parents know where their children are, who they are with and when they are expected home. Youth are encouraged to play in familiar areas and stay within agreed boundaries. RCMP say parents should teach children what to do if approached by a stranger or if they feel unsafe, and to report anything suspicious to a trusted adult or police.
Officers also warn about online risks. They urge parents to speak with their children about appropriate internet use, privacy settings and the importance of not sharing personal information. Open communication can help youth report concerning or inappropriate online interactions.
The Canadian Centre for Child Protection maintains a list of support resources for children who may be victims of exploitation, available at protectchildren.ca.
Reports can be made directly to Wood Buffalo RCMP at 780-788-4000. Anyone who witnesses a crime in progress or faces an emergency should call 911. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, through the P3 Tips website or the P3 Tips app.
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