Edmonton police say they dismantled an encampment this week that had a solar panel, fire pits, propane tanks and a sectional sofa on a site in the Fulton Creek area.
The Edmonton Police Service says the encampment had three structures powered by generators and “built into the hill” in an industrial area between 34 Street and 17 Street.
Authorities say there had been several break and enters and stolen property in the area. Police arrested a man and two women – including one who had nine outstanding warrants. They face charges including mischief over $5,000.
Those living in the camp were offered access to services and supports, according to police, but they refused.
Edmonton police say park rangers and the EPS encampment response team came across the camp Monday while dismantling another nearby encampment.
Police say they located a replica gun, two stolen bicycles – which have since been returned to their owners – pieces of dismantled electric vehicle charging outlets, power tools, an industrial stripping machine, copper wiring, safety gloves and a welding kit.
In a pre-recorded video tour of the encampment, an EPS official says the camp had a solar panel built into the structure, several fire pits, a cooking area, a window, and a patio – calling the structures “very large, very elaborate.”
“I don’t believe they’re one offs,” the official says in the video. “I believe, as we’re finding that there’s property crime within an area, if we’re able to get a successful track, we’ll likely locate additional camps like this.”
CityNews has requested to speak to an EPS official about the camp.