In brief
In a significant terrorism case, four men, including members of the Canadian military, have been arrested for conspiring to seize land near Quebec City, an act categorized as “ideologically motivated violent extremism” by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The men face multiple charges, including terrorism-related offenses, following a comprehensive investigation that involved raids yielding a vast collection of weapons and explosives.
The RCMP announced on Tuesday that Marc-Aurèle Chabot, 24, Raphaël Lagacé, 25, both from Québec City, and Simon Angers-Audet, 24, from Neuville, Quebec, were charged with facilitating a terrorist act. Another suspect, Matthew Forbes, 33, from Pont-Rouge, faces additional charges related to firearms and explosives. Specific details about the suspects' military affiliations have not been disclosed.The investigation revealed that the suspects participated in military-style training, evidenced by photographs released by the Mounties showing individuals in camouflage gear engaged in various military exercises. The authorities confirmed that the group had also carried out reconnaissance operations.This investigation, which has been underway for more than a year, resulted in substantial seizures during a police operation in January 2024. Law enforcement officials recovered 16 explosives, 83 firearms, approximately 11,000 rounds of ammunition, multiple magazines, night vision equipment, and other military gear.As this case unfolds, the Canadian Armed Forces have not provided comments on the charges or the involvement of military personnel. The suspects are scheduled to appear in court shortly as the situation continues to develop.
