Conflict looms as Indians' protest permit expires today

Last update: September 5, 2008 - 9:08 AM

The permit that Dakota Indians protesting in Minneapolis were given -- but didn't ask for -- expires this afternoon.

The two dozen or so protesters erected two teepees and a couple of modern-day tents Tuesday in a bid to reclaim land for the Dakota. But the showdown on the abandoned federal land near Minnehaha Park was put off when federal officials issued a four-day permit.

That allowed the group to remain on the site for religious ceremonies. The site -- known as Coldwater Spring -- is sacred to the Dakota and housed the federal Bureau of Mines until 1996.

Organizers said they don't plan to leave after the permit expires at 3 this afternoon, and that's when a confrontation could come. They said they will maintain the occupation until Dakota rights to the land are fully restored and the federal government cleans up toxic waste on the 28 acres.

--PAUL WALSH

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