On September 3, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) conducted a raid on a decommissioned school in Richmound, Saskatchewan. This action targeted members of the Romana Didulo cult, which has drawn attention for its controversial beliefs and practices. Didulo, who refers to herself as the "Queen of Canada," has attracted a small group of followers, many of whom have adopted anti-government ideologies.

The cult's presence in Richmound began in September 2023, leading to conflicts with local residents. Initial reports suggested that the police raid was prompted by concerns over illegal weapons on the premises. However, upon investigation, authorities found only replica firearms. Most individuals detained during the raid were released without charges, except for Didulo and the building's owner.

As the situation unfolded, it became clear that the cult's activities extended beyond mere ideological disputes. The group had stopped paying for sewage services, leading to significant public health concerns. According to a Facebook post from the village's mayor on August 8, the local government had to block the school's sewer drains and cut off the water supply due to unpaid bills. In response, Didulo's followers reportedly created a makeshift system to dump waste into a nearby park and baseball diamonds, which were subsequently closed for health reasons.

Local media began to cover the sewage issue after the mayor's plea for assistance. Despite the alarming circumstances, it took a month for the RCMP to act. Following the police raid, personnel from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) condemned the building as unfit for habitation.

Brittney Senger, a member of the Saskatchewan legislature, has raised questions about the delayed response from authorities. She is seeking clarification from the provincial government regarding the slow reaction to the situation. While some may argue that coordination between law enforcement and health officials takes time, Senger's inquiries highlight concerns about the government's handling of the matter.

The Saskatchewan government has faced criticism for its response, particularly from the opposition. The justice minister condemned Senger and the NDP for their calls to intervene in police matters, suggesting that the police should operate independently. However, critics argue that the government is ultimately responsible for the health authority's actions and that the SHA should not have waited for police intervention to address the public health crisis.

The situation in Richmound raises broader questions about the state's role in managing unconventional groups and ensuring public safety. As the community grapples with the aftermath, the Saskatchewan Party may need to reassess its approach to rural governance and public health.