BREAKING: 4 Men Charged in Explosive Quebec Militia Plot — 2 Are Active Canadian Soldiers
In one of the most alarming domestic security operations in recent memory, the RCMP has charged four men — including two active Canadian Armed Forces members — after uncovering a violent anti-government militia plot near Quebec City.
Authorities say the men were plotting to seize land by force and were training for what appeared to be a self-declared militant operation.
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What Was Seized
During raids conducted in January 2024, RCMP investigators recovered:
• 83 firearms, including several prohibited weapons
• 16 explosive devices
• 11,000 rounds of various types of ammunition
• 130 high-capacity magazines
• Military-grade equipment, including night-vision goggles and tactical gear
This is considered one of the largest weapons seizures in a terrorism-related case in Canadian history.
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The Charges
Three men — Marc-Aurèle Chabot, Raphaël Lagacé, and Simon Angers-Audet, all in their 20s — face charges under Canada’s anti-terrorism law for allegedly facilitating a terrorist activity. RCMP say the trio organized military-style training that included shooting drills, ambush techniques, survival tactics, and scouting operations.
The fourth accused, Matthew Forbes, 33, faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code, Explosives Act, and Defence Production Act for possessing firearms, prohibited devices, explosives, and controlled items. He is not currently a member of the military.
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Military Involvement
Two of the accused are currently-serving corporals at CFB Valcartier. Another is a former military member, and one had previously served as an air cadet instructor. The Canadian Armed Forces confirmed full cooperation with investigators and are taking the matter extremely seriously.
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Extremist Intentions
According to RCMP, the suspects were attempting to form a self-sufficient, anti-government militia. The plan involved securing land near Quebec City and using it as a base for militant activities. Recruitment efforts were reportedly carried out through social media platforms, using paramilitary-style imagery and coded language.
Officials are categorizing this as a case of ideologically motivated violent extremism — a growing concern in both Canada and other Western nations.
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Legal Proceedings
All four men appeared in a Quebec City courthouse and remain in custody. Further court dates are pending, and investigators say the case is now entering the prosecution phase.
Credit: RCMP Federal Policing – National Security, Canadian Armed Forces, and INSET
Note: This article is based on publicly available information and RCMP official briefings.
