Canadian Army investigates members linked to a Facebook group sharing racist and hateful content. Military police reopen probe to assess serious misconduct.
Army Probes Soldiers in ‘Abhorrent’ Facebook Scandal
Command Responds to Disturbing Online Content
The Canadian Army is investigating several members allegedly involved in sharing racist, misogynistic, homophobic, and antisemitic content through a private Facebook group titled “Blue Hackle Mafia.” Lieutenant-General Mike Wright, Commander of the Canadian Army, condemned the group’s activity as “abhorrent” and ordered immediate disengagement by any active personnel involved.
Group Activity Raises Serious Concerns
The Facebook group reportedly contained offensive posts and imagery, triggering backlash from military leadership. Lt.-Gen. Wright stated he was informed about the alleged misconduct on June 25, although reports had been escalating up the chain of command since December. In a message to all ranks, Wright expressed disgust and reaffirmed the Army’s zero-tolerance stance on hate-fueled extremism within its ranks.
Military Police Launch Disciplinary Investigation
The Canadian Forces Provost Marshal confirmed that military police in Ottawa initially launched an investigation, which has since been handed to the relevant Army unit for a disciplinary probe. This process is intended to determine whether a serious offence was committed. The investigation was formally reopened on June 27. Authorities have withheld further details to protect the investigation’s integrity.
Identity of Group Members Unclear
Details about the “Blue Hackle Mafia” group remain scarce, including how many serving Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members were involved. The name “Hackle” may reference the decorative plume worn by some infantry regiments, but its specific meaning here is unverified.
Broader Extremism Issues in the Ranks
This incident has reignited concerns about extremism within the CAF. A 2022 advisory panel report highlighted a growing presence of hate-aligned members and criticized internal mechanisms for failing to detect extremist affiliations. Earlier watchdog and intelligence reports also warned that white nationalist groups actively recruit individuals with military backgrounds or encourage members to enlist to gain tactical knowledge.
History of Extremist Ties in CAF
The military has faced past controversies involving members with extremist connections. These include the 2021 sentencing of Patrik Mathews, a former Manitoba reservist involved in a neo-Nazi plot in the U.S., and revelations about B.C. reservist Erik Myggland, who continued serving despite counterintelligence concerns.
Army’s Message: Zero Tolerance for Hate
Lt.-Gen. Wright’s directive signals a hardline approach amid growing pressure for institutional reform. “There is no place for hate in our ranks,” his message emphasized. The Army aims to restore public trust while rooting out harmful ideologies threatening cohesion and discipline.
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