According to an RCMP statement, police were called to conduct a wellness check in Fort Good Hope NET, on February 24th. When they arrived at the home, they discovered the body of a 29-year-old man.

Authorities quickly identified a suspect, and with assistance from RCMP officers in Quebec, they arrested Sasha Bena, 18, on March 13th in Montreal. Bena has been charged with Murder contrary to Section 235 of the Criminal Code and was brought back to Yellowknife for subsequent court proceedings.

The incident is believed to be related to the drug trade, according to police.

“This homicide is a difficult reminder of the dangerous and exploitative nature of the illicit drug trade. Drug traffickers are coming to our communities to take advantage of people’s addictions and leave behind nothing but pain and suffering,”

“This arrest should serve as warning to those who would come to the territory to commit violence that the RCMP has a long reach and we are committed to bringing violent criminals to justice.”

-Sgt. Jason Hurley,