An Occupation In Eastern Oregon

Law Enforcement Stays Quiet On Refuge Occupation

By Amanda Peacher (OPB)
Jan. 12, 2016 1:45 a.m.
Federal Bureau of Investigation vehicles obstruct to entrance to the Burns airport Monday, Jan. 11, 2016.

Federal Bureau of Investigation vehicles obstruct to entrance to the Burns airport Monday, Jan. 11, 2016.

Amanda Peacher / OPB

If law enforcement officials plan to take action against armed occupiers at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, they're not saying.

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The FBI is the lead agency for the incident, although state and sheriff's deputies from around the state have also come to Burns, Oregon, since a group of militants led by Ammon and Ryan Bundy took over the refuge Jan. 2.

Officials said Monday they're monitoring the situation at the refuge but won't provide any details about law enforcement activity. The militants at the refuge and their supporters have freely been bringing in supplies and using the federally-owned vehicles and equipment at the complex.

Related: Federal Agency Condemns Militants Removing Refuge Fences

Authorities have established a law enforcement command post in the center of Burns at county and school district buildings. The buildings are fenced off and secured by deputies around the clock.

The FBI has also stationed at the small Burns airport, which is now blocked by armed agents.

Officials say they can't answer questions about why the militants are able to come and go, or why electricity and Internet connectivity remains intact. Officials say they can't comment because the situation is a part of active investigation.

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