Wet’suwet’en Elected and Hereditary Chiefs Denounce Violence in Alleged CGL Worksite Attack

Wet’suwet’en First Nation elected Chief Maureen Luggi is condemning an alleged attack on a Coastal GasLink worksite on Wet’suwet’en territory.

Last week, the RCMP announced they were investigating reports of an attack on the worksite near Houston, allegedly involving 20 individuals armed with axes.

Luggi says their communities were left shocked by the reports, and that violent acts are against the Nation’s values.

She also denounced the attacks for the estimated millions in damages, and for possible environmental issues stemming from fluid lines cut in the incident.

An elected council, the band is one of many who have signed agreements with CGL along the 670 km pipeline route.

On Saturday, the Wet’suwet’en Hereditary Chiefs, who oppose the pipeline, also sent out a letter denouncing the violence.

In the letter, they say that, while they don’t have information to comment on the specifics, their top priority is the safety of all Nation members on the yintah.

They ask that ceremonies continue in a peaceful, non-violent manner, as the incident is investigated.