Panniqtuuq (July 19/04) - Charges have been laid in connection with the forcible confinement of three young men in Panniqtuuq on the evening of July 11.

"Alcohol was a significant factor" in the incident, said RCMP Const. Chris Coles.

Police took three men into custody shortly after the incident and flew them to Iqaluit on July 13.

Andrew Evic, 18, has been charged with one count of aggravated assault, two counts of assault causing bodily harm and three counts of unlawful confinement in connection with the incident.

Noah Ishulutak, 29, and Imo Kakee, 19, have been charged with three counts each of assault causing bodily harm and unlawful confinement.

Kakee also faces two charges relating to breach of conditions related to his release on other charges.

Hearings to determine whether the three men are to remain in custody should conclude by the end of the week.

RCMP are still investigating the incident.