The NT RCMP Federal Investigations Unit is investigating the major disruption of communication services in the NWT that happened on Saturday, July 13th.
Long-distance call, cell phone, landlines, as well as internet services were down partially or completely for most of the day in a large area covering Yellowknife and surrounding communities. Crews from Northwestel worked all day to restore the services, which was back in the evening.
Police believe this disruption is linked to a criminal act that occurred the morning of July 13th, between 7:00 a.m. and 7:45 a.m., near Highway #3 between Yellowknife and Behchoko.
Police are requesting information from anyone who may assist in this investigation, including any motorist who may have been travelling on Hwy #3 and saw anything suspicious, or had a dashcam operating during that timeframe.
Staff Sergeant Dean Riou, NCO i/c “G” Division Federal Policing stated that it is in everyone’s best interest to provide any information which could lead to police identifying the person or persons responsible.
“We take threats to our critical infrastructure very seriously. This senseless vandalism had far-reaching implications which affected the safety and comfort of the majority of NWT residents. We encourage anyone with information to come forward to your local police, or call Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous.”
