Four men, including two Canadian Armed Forces members, are charged in Québec over an alleged extremist militia plot involving weapons and explosives.
RCMP Charges Four in Alleged Anti-Government Militia Scheme
Two active Canadian Armed Forces members and two civilians have been arrested and charged in connection with a disturbing alleged plot to establish an armed anti-government militia and forcibly seize land in Québec, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Alleged Extremist Activity and Weapons Cache
The RCMP stated that three of the accused engaged in paramilitary-style training near Québec City, including live-fire shooting drills and reconnaissance operations. Authorities seized a significant cache of weapons and gear from the suspects earlier this year—16 explosive devices, 83 firearms, over 10,000 rounds of ammunition, 130 magazines, night-vision goggles, and other tactical equipment.
Suspects Named and Charged
The individuals charged are Marc-Aurèle Chabot, 24, and Raphaël Lagacé, 25, both from Québec City; Simon Angers-Audet, 24, of Neuville; and Matthew Forbes, 33, from Pont-Rouge. The first three face charges of facilitating terrorist activities. Forbes is accused of illegally possessing prohibited firearms and explosives. All four men are scheduled to appear in a Québec City court on Tuesday.
Alleged Plans and Online Recruitment Efforts
According to police, the group’s objective was to establish an anti-government militia capable of seizing territory. Authorities allege one suspect used Instagram to recruit new members to the cause, though specific motives have not been publicly disclosed.
RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Charles Poirier said the operation was disrupted “before any violence could take place,” citing concerns over the group’s military-grade arsenal.
Armed Forces Responds to Allegations
The Department of National Defence confirmed the involvement of two active military personnel but withheld their names. In a public statement, the Canadian Armed Forces said, “We take these allegations very seriously and have cooperated fully with the RCMP investigation.”
The incident has renewed concerns over rising extremism within Canada’s military. A 2022 advisory panel report warned of increasing ties between service members and extremist ideologies, calling for urgent institutional reforms.
National Security and Public Concern
The arrests have triggered debate over domestic extremism and military oversight in Canada. Experts say the case could be a watershed moment for how Canada addresses radicalization within uniformed institutions.
Investigations are ongoing, and the RCMP has not ruled out additional charges or arrests. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
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