Break-In at the tems swiya Musuem and tsain-ko Gift Shop Under Investigation

March 12, 2026 – chátlich (Sechelt), BC — shíshálh Nation is informing community members and the public that a break-in has recently occurred at the tems swiya Museum and the tsain-ko West Coast Native Arts and Gift Shop.

An investigation is currently underway. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have opened a file and are working in collaboration with the shíshálh Nation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As a precaution, the tems swiya Museum will be closed until further notice while staff conduct a careful review of the museum’s collection to ensure that artifacts, cultural items and inventory have not been stolen or damaged. Protecting these items, many of which hold deep cultural and historical significance to the shíshálh Nation, is our top priority.

The tsain-ko West Coast Native Arts and Gift Shop has also been impacted by the break-in. Staff are assessing the situation and taking the necessary steps to support the ongoing investigation.

shíshálh Nation asks community members and the public to cooperate with authorities and respect the investigative process while this matter remains under review. Anyone who may have information related to the incident are encouraged to contact the RCMP by either visiting their offices at 5800 Teredo St., Sechelt, BC or by calling 604-885-2266.

Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.

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Media contact:

Nancy Shields
Interim Communications Manager
shíshálh Nation
shishalhcommunications@shishalh.com