Quebec Terror Suspects: One Granted Bail, Others Remain Detained

Four individuals linked to an alleged terror plot in Quebec have been the focus of intense scrutiny, with one of them, Matthew Forbes, granted bail while the others remain in custody. The case has raised significant concerns regarding military involvement in extremist activities, prompting statements from the Canadian Department of National Defence (DND).

The DND confirmed on July 10, 2025, that the weapons seized during the investigation, which began in March 2023, did not originate from the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). In a statement, the DND emphasized that “the weapons, ammunition, and explosives that were seized as part of the RCMP-led investigation…did not originate from the Canadian Armed Forces.”

During a court appearance on July 10, Forbes, 33, was ordered to adhere to strict conditions, including wearing a GPS tracking device. The other three suspects—Simon Angers-Audet, 24, Raphael Lagacé, 25, and Marc-Aurèle Chabot, 24—are scheduled for bail hearings on July 24 and 25.

According to the DND, both Chabot and Forbes are currently serving members of the CAF at CFB Valcartier, located just outside Quebec City. Chabot has been with the army since June 2019 and was transferred to the Regular Force in July 2023. Forbes enlisted in October 2016 and has participated in military operations, including the G7 Summit security operation in 2018.

The DND provided additional context regarding the backgrounds of the accused. While Angers-Audet served as a reservist until May 2022, Lagacé was a civilian instructor in the Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron from January 2021 until September 2024. The DND confirmed that neither of the active members has been performing military duties recently and lack unescorted access to the military base.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced the arrests of the four men on July 8, 2025, stating that three of them are accused of actions to “facilitate terrorist activity” along with plans to establish an “anti-government militia.” Forbes faces additional charges, including possession of firearms and explosives. Although the alleged target has not been specified, the RCMP noted it was not a government facility or political landmark, but rather land intended for establishing a base for their group.

The RCMP revealed that the suspects engaged in military-style training, which included shooting, ambush tactics, and navigation exercises. A substantial arsenal was reportedly accumulated as part of their activities, with the RCMP seizing 16 explosive devices, 83 firearms, over 11,000 rounds of ammunition, and various tactical equipment.

While the investigation is ongoing, the DND has stated that they are committed to addressing any threats to the integrity of their personnel. “Should the integrity of a CAF member be called into question, actions may include restricting access to the base, weapons, and security clearances,” the DND reiterated.

As the legal proceedings continue, the implications of this case extend beyond the individuals involved, raising concerns about military personnel’s roles in civilian extremist actions. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the RCMP continues its investigation.