Iiyinnaki means Police Force in Blackfoot.
Before the 1800s, Blackfoot Societies served as traditional law keepers and enforcers. The Kanatsomitaiksi (Crazy Dog Society), now known as the Brave Dog Society, was a leading Soldier Society of the Siksika Nation, responsible for peacekeeping, security, dispute resolution, and offender rehabilitation. The Siktsiinaakikowaiks (Black Soldier Society) protected Siksikawa Otowasihn and enforced punishments.
Treaty 7 & Early Policing
Treaty 7 was signed at Blackfoot Crossing on September 22, 1877, by five First Nations: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina. The treaty included a provision for Blackfoot Chiefs to assist the Queen’s Police in law enforcement. The North West Mounted Police (NWMP) were assigned to uphold laws, with police outposts established on reserves alongside Indian agents overseeing affairs.
Blackfoot Scouts
Blackfoot Scouts were hired to assist the NWMP, acting as lookouts, apprehending offenders, and maintaining security on reserves. Notable scouts included White Headed Chief and Dick Bad Boy, among others.
Blackfoot Tribal Police
In the early 1950s, the Blackfoot Tribal Police was established, federally appointed to support the RCMP. Officers had authority to issue minor infractions under the Indian Act and, with RCMP approval, make arrests beyond reserve boundaries.
By the 1980s, the first Blackfoot Police Committee was formed to oversee operations, though funding remained limited. The committee worked closely with the Gleichen RCMP to maintain law enforcement services.
Siksika Nation Police Service
In 1992, the Siksika Nation Police Service was officially established through agreements with Alberta, the federal government, and Siksika Nation. In 1997, the Siksika Nation Public Safety Building opened, housing police, EMS, and a courthouse. However, in 2002, the policing agreement expired, and the Gleichen RCMP resumed control. Since then, Siksika Nation leadership and community members have been working to restore the Siksika Nation Police Force.
