Canada’s military police watchdog launches public hearing into claims of civilian mistreatment during an exercise at CFB Montreal last November.
Public Hearing Launched Into Military Police Conduct
Canada’s military police watchdog has announced a public interest hearing into serious allegations of civilian mistreatment during an active shooter drill at Canadian Forces Base Montreal. The incident, which took place in November 2024, involved the alleged violent detention of a civilian employee by military police officers.
Civilian Claims Trauma After Unexpected Encounter
According to a complaint filed by a union representative, the civilian—who was painting on site—was not a participant in the exercise and had not been informed of its timing. The man alleges that several military police officers pointed weapons at him, ordered him to the ground, and dragged him by his coverall and sweater, damaging his clothing.
Believing the situation to be a real attack, the employee claims he was searched, ordered to leave, and forced to remain outside in freezing weather without proper clothing for the duration of the exercise.
Watchdog Challenges Official Interpretation
The Military Police Complaints Commission (MPCC) received the formal complaint on November 21, 2024. While the Canadian Forces Provost Marshal initially handled the case and classified it as a training issue not subject to public misconduct standards, the complainant requested an independent review.
MPCC Chairperson Tammy Tremblay disagreed with the initial classification, stating the conduct “does not relate to training” and instead raises broader public interest questions about the treatment of civilians during military operations.
Allegations of Lasting Psychological Impact
Tremblay emphasized the emotional and psychological toll on the civilian, who described the experience as deeply traumatic. According to the complaint, the incident triggered memories of atrocities the man survived during the Rwandan genocide in 1994.
“The employee claims to have experienced humiliation and mistreatment that caused him significant trauma,” Tremblay wrote in her decision to hold the hearing.
Concerns Over Communication and Safety Protocols
The union representing the employee also raised concerns about poor communication with civilian staff, noting that many were unaware of the exercise and initially believed they were witnessing an actual attack.
This lapse in communication is a key point of concern for the MPCC, which cited the potential for confusion, panic, and harm during future drills if protocols are not improved.
Virtual Hearing Date Yet to Be Announced
While the allegations have not yet been proven, the MPCC stated the situation merits public scrutiny due to its serious implications. The public hearing will be conducted primarily in a virtual format, with a date to be announced soon.
The case marks a rare move by the MPCC to open a hearing to public view, underscoring the potential systemic issues in the conduct and oversight of Canada’s military police forces.
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