The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has apprehended a minor in Montreal on suspicion of involvement in terrorist activities. The arrest came following information indicating that the individual, described as a “young man,” was allegedly planning an attack directed at a local school in the city. Authorities revealed that the suspect utilized artificial intelligence in the potential planning of the attack and had made threatening posts on the messaging platform Telegram targeting various groups, including Muslims, Haitians, and the 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
According to RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Érique Gasse, the FBI provided tips a few weeks ago that led to the investigation and subsequent arrest. The minor was taken into custody at his residence on Friday morning as part of an operation conducted by the Integrated National Security Enforcement Team, which focuses on monitoring and disrupting criminal activities of individuals or groups posing a threat to Canada’s national security.
Gasse mentioned that the detained individual is currently being questioned by investigators, while others are searching his home for electronic devices and any relevant evidence related to the case. The police action aimed to disrupt the suspect’s alleged activities and to obtain a peace bond for monitoring and intervention purposes. The minor is scheduled to appear in youth court on Saturday, with the possibility of facing charges in the future.