Calgary police destroy underground encampment south of Stampede grounds

Calgary first responders have destroyed a tunnel and encampment south of the Stampede grounds citing health and safety risks, police said Thursday.

"This was an incredibly elaborate underground structure that was highly dangerous, not only for those inhabiting it, but for the surrounding community," said Sgt. Kristian Thorpe of the community engagement response team.

"Camping on public land is against the city's bylaws. However, when approaching sites where individuals are experiencing homelessness, we balance compassion with their safety and the safety of the community."

Police found the encampment early last month in the 3200 block of 25th Avenue S.E., just west of Spiller Road. The south end of the Stampede grounds are just north across the Elbow River.

A human-made tunnel dug into the ground led to a "fully functioning" shelter, obscured by brush on a steep slope. The shelter was about six feet high, seven feet wideand 10 feet long (1.8 metres high, 2.1 metres wide and 3.0 metres long).

The site was searched twice last week, followed by a three-day excavation starting Thursday.

Police say they didn't locate anyone using the shelter but found a homemade stun gun inside.

Homelessness is a complex issue, police said.

"Addressing homelessness necessitates holistic approaches that prioritize affordable housing, social support systems, mental health servicesand policies aimed at combating systemic injustices. Only through concerted efforts can we strive towards realizing the basic human right to adequate housing for all."