‘Fully-functioning’ underground tunnel encampment dismantled by Calgary police
As of now, no one is in custody, and no charges have been filed, according to the city.
According to recent information from the city, crews spent three days excavating a man-made underground encampment located in the southeast area of Calgary.
In early September, while performing routine patrols, members of the Calgary Police Service (CPS) District 1 Community Engagement Response Team (CERT) discovered the site of the underground encampment in a wooded region close to the 320 block of 25 Avenue SE, near Spiller Road SE.
According to the city, officers observed the entrance to the encampment on a steep, brush-covered slope, where a human-made tunnel had been dug into the ground, complete with a fully functioning shelter inside.
The shelter measured approximately six feet in height and had dimensions of around 10 feet by seven feet. Additionally, police discovered a homemade taser lying on the ground within the encampment. However, no individuals were found inside or near the tunnel when it was initially discovered, nor in the subsequent weeks.
As of now, no one is in custody, and no charges have been filed, according to the city.
After the discovery, Emergency Management and Community Safety (EMCS), along with the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) Technical Rescue Team, and Parks and Open Spaces and Infrastructure Services were alerted to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the property.
The city has stated that encampments are promptly removed if there is evidence indicating an immediate health and safety risk.
On Monday, September 23, prior to the scheduled excavation of the site, the EMCS Vulnerable Persons Team conducted a thorough search of the area and cleared debris from outside the entrance.
A final check was done on Sept. 26 to ensure no one was inside before crews began excavating the area.
“Public safety for all Calgarians is our priority. This was an incredibly elaborate underground structure that was highly dangerous, not only for those inhabiting it, but for the surrounding community,” CPS District 1 Community Engagement Response Team Sgt. Kristian Thorpe said in a statement. “We continue to lead with compassion and help connect those who are facing homelessness with resources and supports. We thank all of our city partners for their assistance.”
Thorpe says this type of underground structure isn’t a recurring issue in Calgary.
Community Standards Insp. Sue Wall says camping on public land is against city bylaws.
“However, when approaching sites where individuals are experiencing homelessness, we balance compassion with their safety and the safety of the community,” Wall added.
“Our teams work with community partners like the Drop-In Centre and Alpha House to provide services to individuals who are in need, and work to establish relationships and connect them to a variety of social supports and offers of help, if they are willing,”
