Asylum seekers brave major winter storm to cross U.S. / Canada border

The major winter storm that shut down most highways in Southern Manitoba did not deter 18 asylum seekers between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning from crossing the international border into Manitoba.

Reeve Greg Janzen said that at least one person was injured with a broken arm during the dangerous trek.

Weather conditions in the area of Emerson are poor with high winds and bitter cold making it difficult for refugees and emergency workers trying to help them. It is feared that one person who attempted to cross with the group is missing and attempts are being made to have American authorities launch a search on their side of the border.

The group that made the journey in the wee hours of Wednesday morning included children and a woman who is pregnant.

The storm has closed Highway 75 so Emerson is also dealing with a number of stranded motorists. The local hotel is full so the community has opened it recreation facility to temporarily house the asylum seekers.

With the latest group more than 200 people have crossed into Manitoba since the beginning of 2017.

-News4 Staff

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