New York, July 9, (dpa/GNA) – Four men, including members of the Canadian Armed Forces, have been arrested for allegedly founding an “anti-government militia” and making plans to seize land in the province of Quebec.
Three suspects aged between 24 and 25 are accused of promoting terrorist activities, while a 33-year-old man has been charged with weapons possession, amongst other offences, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) said on Tuesday.
The national police service said they seized 16 explosive devices, 83 weapons and accessories, around 11,000 rounds of ammunition, almost 130 magazines, night vision equipment and other military gear during searches in Quebec.
The men are also said to have taken part in military-style training, shooting and survival exercises. In addition, they went on a “scouting operation” as part of their plan to “forcibly take possession of land in the Québec City area.”
The Canadian Armed Forces have long had a problem with soldiers with extremist views. A military report in 2022 found, that the number of Canadian Armed Forces members belonging to extremist groups, is increasing.
GNA