Saskatchewan’s recently established police force had plans to establish a SWAT unit, but those intentions are now on hold. Minister of Community Safety Michael Weger announced on Friday that he has instructed the Saskatchewan Marshals Service to temporarily halt the development of a specialized response team.
Recent reports revealed that the police force was in the process of acquiring equipment such as sniper rifles, remotely operable hydraulic breaching tools, thermal cameras, night vision goggles, ballistic helmets and shields, and long-range acoustic devices for the proposed tactical unit. The bidding process for these supplies had commenced online earlier and concluded this week.
When questioned by the media, Premier Scott Moe stated he was unaware of the bid request earlier in the week. The government is now reviewing whether the request for proposals should proceed as planned, as confirmed by Moe. Subsequently, Minister Weger stated on Friday that no equipment will be procured for this unit.
Moving forward, the Marshals Service will prioritize establishing collaborations with the Saskatchewan RCMP, Municipal, and First Nations police forces to enhance community safety. The marshals were inaugurated in May 2025 with a mission to support other law enforcement agencies in combating rural crime, gangs, and drug-related activities. Additionally, the service was tasked with apprehending high-risk individuals with outstanding warrants.