Canadian soldiers arrested in extremist plot to seize Quebec territory

 July 10, 2025

A shocking revelation has emerged from Quebec as four individuals, including two active Canadian Armed Forces members, were arrested over an alleged extremist plot that has sent shockwaves through the nation's military community.

According to Daily Mail, Marc-Aurèle Chabot, Raphaël Lagacé, Simon Angers-Audet, and Matthew Forbes were arrested and charged with facilitating terrorist activity and attempting to create an anti-government militia in Quebec. The group allegedly conducted military-style training exercises and scouting operations between June 2021 and January 2024.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) investigation uncovered a significant cache of weapons and tactical equipment, including 16 explosive devices, 83 firearms, 130 magazines, and approximately 11,000 rounds of ammunition. Many of these items are believed to have been stolen from a military base in Petawawa, Ontario.

Military Training and Recruitment Efforts Revealed

The suspects engaged in sophisticated military-style exercises, focusing on shooting, ambush tactics, survival skills, and navigation. Their activities extended across multiple Canadian provinces, with a particular concentration in Quebec and Ontario.

The group attempted to expand their operation through a private Instagram account, where they sought to recruit individuals with firearms expertise. RCMP officials discovered photos showing seven people in military uniforms brandishing weapons during training sessions.

The investigation revealed that the suspects had taken concrete steps toward establishing what they termed an "independent land" north of Quebec City. Their social media presence served as a recruitment tool, though authorities describe their efforts as amateur.

Arsenal Discovery Raises Security Concerns

Law enforcement's January 2024 raids yielded an alarming array of military-grade equipment. The seizures included prohibited weapons, grenades, night-vision goggles, and high-capacity magazines, raising serious questions about military base security.

The suspects had accumulated weapons and tactical gear that suggested a well-planned operation. The discovery of stolen military equipment from Petawawa base has prompted an internal investigation into security protocols at Canadian military installations.

Investigators are particularly concerned about how the group acquired such an extensive arsenal, especially given their military connections. The RCMP has characterized the case as "ideologically motivated violent extremism."

Suspect Profiles and Military Connections

Two of the accused maintain active ties to the Canadian military establishment. Chabot, 24, is currently stationed at CFB Saint-Gabriel-de-Valcartier, while Lagacé, 25, previously served as a Royal Canadian Air Cadets civilian instructor.

The Department of National Defence has expressed serious concern about the allegations, pledging full cooperation with the RCMP investigation. The military background of the suspects has raised questions about potential extremist infiltration within Canada's armed forces.

The arrests have prompted discussions about screening processes for military personnel and the need for enhanced monitoring of potential extremist activities within military ranks.

Investigation Outcomes and Legal Proceedings

The suspects remain in custody following their initial court appearance in Quebec City. The prosecution has successfully argued against their release, citing the serious nature of the charges and potential flight risks.

Court documents detail the extensive planning and preparation undertaken by the group, including their efforts to establish an anti-government community. The investigation, which began in March 2023, culminated in coordinated arrests involving tactical teams and smoke grenades.

Their next court appearance is scheduled for July 14, where they will face charges related to facilitating terrorist activity, illegal weapons possession, and explosives charges. The case highlights growing concerns about domestic extremism and the potential exploitation of military training for anti-government activities.

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