Ex-Military Men Accused in Quebec Terror Plot, Police Say Informant Helped Case

Four men — including current and former Canadian Armed Forces members — are facing terrorism-related charges in Quebec after a police investigation revealed allegations they planned pro-government violence and militia-style training, RBC Mounties and court documents say. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) allege the group, identified in public and court records as associated with the extremist-leaning unit “Hide & Stalk,” took part in military-style drills and firearms exercises in wooded areas near Québec City and elsewhere in 2023 and 2024, according to police and judicial filings.

Authorities say the case broke open after one group member agreed to cooperate with investigators, signing a collaboration agreement and providing detailed information about the organisation’s activities and plans. That individual’s cooperation included handing over photographs, conversations and other material that helped identify at least 13 associated individuals and shed light on the group’s ideology and alleged intentions, which included forming an autonomous anti-government community.

Three of the accused — Marc-Aurèle Chabot, Simon Angers-Audet and Raphaël Lagacé — have been formally charged under the Criminal Code’s terrorism provisions for allegedly taking concrete steps to facilitate terrorist activity, stemming from their activities with surveillance, training sessions and tactical exercises. A fourth man, Matthew Forbes, faces weapons- and explosives-related charges but has not been accused under the terrorism statute itself.

The RCMP says the investigation involved extensive surveillance and law-enforcement cooperation and was launched after intelligence identified indications that the group was preparing for armed activities with ideological motivations. Searches carried out by police in January 2024 reportedly yielded firearms — including prohibited weapons — tactical gear and other materials consistent with the allegations.

The cooperating witness’s information was significant in revealing the alleged leadership structure and plans of the group, including the role played by Chabot, who allegedly recruited and trained members based on his combat and military skills. The informant reportedly met with police voluntarily, provided testimony over multiple days and assisted in mapping the network’s structure, training sites and internal discussions about its aims.

Defence attorneys for the accused have not publicly commented on the role of the informant or the RCMP’s assertions, and the defendants are presumed innocent under Canadian law. The use of informants in national security cases is a recognised investigative tool but can raise legal questions about disclosure, privilege and trial fairness as matters proceed through the courts.

The case remains before the courts in Quebec, with appearances and proceedings ongoing as the justice system schedules further hearings. RCMP Federal Policing’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team continues to urge the public to report any information that might relate to extremist activities, noting that violence-motivated groups remain an enforcement priority.