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Platinex protesters block exploration officials

Band members from the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation have blocked representatives from Platinex Inc. from accessing their mineral claims in northwestern Ontario, Aug. 25.


Band members from the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation have blocked representatives from Platinex Inc. from accessing their mineral claims in northwestern Ontario, Aug. 25.

Residents in boats circled Nemeigusabins Lake to prevent a float plane carrying the company officials from landing near their claims. The protest took place under the eyes of the Ontario Provincial Police.

The company intended to visit the site before proceeding with drilling on the highly-prospective platinum property.

Both sides are blaming the Ontario government for not conducting proper consultations in resolving this long-standing dispute on the First Nation's traditional territory.

The dispute has resulted in a multi-million lawsuit against both the band and the Ontario government last year and Native leaders being jailed for obstructing exploration.