For the second time in just over a month, the NWT SPCA has been the victim of water-tampering.
The first case was discovered back on August 12, when an employee with the non-profit organization noticed an unknown substance in the facility’s outdoor water tank.
Barely a month later, on September 13, another incident of tampering was reported to police.
In both cases, RCMP say an unknown substance was added to an outdoor water tank that animals drink from at the site. Thankfully, the contamination was discovered before any animals were harmed.
Even still, the president of the NWT SPCA wants answers.
“I wish somebody could tell us exactly what it is. We’ve shown people and I’ve actually had it in my hand to see if we could recognize it,” said Nicole Spencer.
“Nobody seems to know what it is but we did get a sample taken and it’s with the police now so hopefully we can see what it is and go from there.”
Meanwhile, Spencer says the tank has been drained and won’t be used again this season.
The non-profit is also considering some security upgrades – including fencing and more surveillance equipment.
“We will likely get another camera if someone is going to be maliciously trying to cause harm to our animals,” she said.
RCMP in Yellowknife are also treating the reports seriously. They say this type of behaviour amounts to mischief, and carries severe consequences.
“Anyone who’s rendering property dangerous is committing the crime of mischief under the Criminal Code of Canada,” said RCMP Constable Elenore Sturko.
“In addition, anyone who willfully and without lawful excuse, kills, maims, wounds, poisons or injures dogs, birds or animals is committing a crime.”
If you happen to notice any suspicious activity in the area, contact Yellowknife RCMP or the NWT SPCA.
