The Manitoba government is spending $3.3 million to add nine new officers to the RCMP's emergency response team, as part of its plan to address crime in rural areas.

The money will increase the team's staff to 18 full-time positions, in a unit that uses specialized training and equipment to resolve high-risk situations, including some searches and arrests, serious violent crime and hostage situations.

"Really, any time that officer safety is at risk, this is an opportunity to support that work," …