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2d ago

Montreal Teen Held on Islamic State Terror Charges as Crown Moves to Seek Adult Sentence

Prosecutors plan to seek an adult sentence, reflecting mounting concerns over youth radicalization in Quebec.

Photos from the Hide and Stalk group taken during a May 2023 weekend of tactical training at a hunting ground north of Quebec City. The photos were posted on Instagram by group member Raphaël Lagacé and mentioned in RCMP search warrant applications. Mr. Lagacé and two other men were charged with facilitating a terrorist activity.
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RCMP released this photo and alleged the suspects in Quebec City were stockpiling weapons and ammunition to further a plot to take over an unidentified property by force.

Overview

  • The 17-year-old was arrested Wednesday in Côte-des-Neiges—Notre-Dame-de-Grâce after an INSET-led operation involving nearly 40 officers and a search of a four-storey apartment building.
  • He is charged in youth court with providing property or services for terrorist purposes, participating in a terrorist group’s activity, and facilitating a terrorist activity.
  • RCMP say he pledged allegiance to Islamic State, sought long guns such as AK-47s, and posted threats on social media; investigators say the public was never in danger.
  • Federal prosecutor Mark Cigana opposes release and has filed notice to seek an adult sentence; the case returns to court Monday to set a bail hearing date.
  • The arrest follows an investigation launched in April and comes alongside a separate Quebec City probe that uncovered large weapons caches and led to terrorism-related charges against men with military ties.