Navajo park briefly closed to remove group without permit

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Navajo Nation authorities say they briefly closed a tribal park to remove a large group making videos without permission and attempting to enter culturally protected areas.

Monument Valley Navajo Trial Park spokeswoman Louise Tsinijinnie said Friday the 50 non-native people didn't have required backcountry or filming permits, but initially didn't want to leave. They were later escorted out and the park was re-opened.

She says they are part of a group called Global Witness, and were apparently drawn there by their spiritual beliefs.

The group did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment, but in a YouTube video leader Derek Broes said they were searching for "what secrets of the earth holds of our past, of our ancient past." He and other group members deny posing any kind of threat.

Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Related topics