WINNIPEG – A growing number of Somali refugees are seeking asylum in Canada, driven by anxieties related to past immigration crackdowns in the United States, according to a CBC News report broadcast Thursday.

Somali Refugees Seek Asylum in Manitoba

Approximately 150 Somali nationals have crossed the border into Manitoba between December and the end of February, primarily single men. Avdike Ahmed, who runs Resilia Wellness Center in Winnipeg, stated that many have risked their lives to reach Canada, fearing repercussions from policies enacted during the Trump administration. The Salvation Army reported that over half of the refugees staying at its Winnipeg shelter in the past six months came from the United States. Advocates say this influx is straining local shelters and support services, with newcomers facing overcrowded housing, limited food access, and delays in obtaining work permits.

Immigration lawyer Alistair Clark noted that a new Canadian law setting time limits for asylum claims is impacting his clients, while the federal government maintains the law aims to create a more sustainable system. Ahmed believes the new legislation won’t address the underlying fears driving people to seek refuge in Canada, predicting continued arrivals as the weather improves.

Meningitis Cases on the Rise

Across the country, cases of bacterial meningitis are increasing. CBC News data shows at least 155 infections were reported in 2025, marking Canada’s highest tally in over a decade. The majority of cases have been identified in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. The illness hit a record low during the pandemic before beginning to rise again. Health officials in Manitoba have adjusted their vaccination program to address an unexpected strain, type W. Experts emphasize the importance of vaccination, noting that the death rate for invasive meningococcal disease can reach 14%, with infants and young adults particularly vulnerable.

RCMP Raid Sparks First Nation Protest

A recent RCMP raid on a cannabis shop on Budledec First Nation has ignited tensions. Kenny Bask, whose son owns the business, alleges that officers arrived with guns drawn, traumatizing his family. Police seized cannabis products and arrested two individuals. The community responded by blocking a highway, stranding officers whose vehicles were damaged.

Nova Scotia’s Justice Minister stated the province is willing to discuss the issue with First Nations representatives, but affirmed that the Cannabis Act remains the law of the land. Bask, who has not been charged, says the shop has reopened, but the incident has left a lasting impact. A band councillor stated the raid has damaged the trust built with the RCMP in recent years.

Montreal Car Export Businesses Linked to Theft Ring

CBC News also reported on an investigation revealing that car export businesses in Montreal are playing a key role in a surge in car thefts. Investigators found stolen vehicles being loaded onto shipping containers at warehouses, with one warehouse allegedly serving as headquarters for an organized criminal group. While one individual, Albert Chiyoyo, was identified as being in charge of a stolen vehicle warehouse, he has not been charged. Authorities are continuing to investigate the network.