AMC: Alleged Use of Force by Security Guard Raises Serious Concerns for First Nations Safety in Winnipeg
March 1, 2026
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, MB (March 1, 2026) -The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) is expressing serious concern following the circulation of video footage that allegedly shows a security guard using force against an Indigenous man at a retail location on Portage Avenue in Winnipeg.
The video, which has been reviewed by AMC leadership, appears to show the individual being kicked and struck multiple times. The footage also appears to show the guard striking the individual with what may be a metal object. If confirmed, that would raise additional and very serious concerns.
The full circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
Grand Chief Kyra Wilson said the images are deeply troubling.
“What I saw in that video is concerning. While we must allow the proper investigative process to unfold, the images raise serious questions about use-of-force practices and how First Nations people are being treated in public spaces. If it is confirmed that a weapon or metal object was involved, that would be extremely serious.”
The AMC has filed a formal complaint under The Private Investigators and Security Guards Act requesting an immediate review of the security guard’s licensing status and the company’s compliance history. AMC has also formally written to the executive leadership of the security company involved requesting:
- Immediate suspension of the staff member pending investigation
- Preservation of all incident reports and surveillance footage
- Confirmation of the company’s use-of-force policies and whether weapons are authorized
- A third-party independent investigation
- A written response within five (5) business days
An urgent executive-level meeting has also been requested to address immediate corrective measures and any broader systemic concerns.
Grand Chief Wilson emphasized that accountability and public safety must guide the response.
“This is not about rushing to judgment. It is about transparency, accountability, and ensuring that First Nations people are treated with dignity and respect. No one should fear violence while shopping in their own city. The safety and dignity of our people is non-negotiable.”
AMC will continue to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates to Chiefs and the public as appropriate.
For more information, please contact:
Communications Team
Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Email: media@manitobachiefs.com
About the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
The AMC was formed in 1988 by the Chiefs in Manitoba to advocate on issues that commonly affect First Nations in Manitoba. AMC is an authorized representative of all 63 First Nations in Manitoba, with a total of more than 151,000 First Nations citizens in the province, accounting for approximately 12 per cent of the provincial population. AMC represents a diversity of Anishinaabe (Ojibwe), Nehetho / Ininew (Cree), Anishininew (Ojibwe-Cree), Denesuline (Dene) and Dakota Oyate (Dakota) people.