News release

RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region investigates potential migrant crossing near Emerson

March 11, 2026 - Emerson, Manitoba
From: Federal Policing Northwest Region

Content

On Dec. 5, 2025, at approximately 9 p.m., officers from the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region’s Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) in Manitoba were working in collaboration with the United States Border Patrol (USBP) when a migrant crossing was detected approximately 10 km west of Emerson near the RM of Montcalm.   

While conducting patrols, IBET officers observed a vehicle in the area, which appeared to accelerate away after seeing police. Officers intercepted the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. Information gathered by officers resulted in the arrest of the male driver. 

Four migrants were located near the location of the vehicle and were arrested without incident before being transferred to the Canadian Border Services Agency in Emerson. 

The 31-year-old male driver, Bereket Wondwes Wube, from Winnipeg, has been charged with a counselling offence contrary to section 131 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. 

Wube is scheduled to appear in Emerson Provincial Court on March 12, 2026. 

The investigation is ongoing.

Quotes

“From a humanitarian standpoint, encouraging people to use Canada’s official ports of entry is essential to protecting those who are most at risk. Irregular crossings often push individuals into dangerous terrain or life-threatening winter conditions. Weather conditions at the time of this investigation included limited visibility, moderate snowfall, and colder temperatures around -18°C with windchill. By supporting travel through designated entry points, we help shield people from exploitation and ensure they are not forced into perilous situations while we work to safeguard both the border and the well-being of those seeking to enter Canada.”

Inspector Mitch Tkachuk, Officer in Charge of the Manitoba Border Integrity Unit

Contacts