A Shocking Discovery in Quebec's Extremist Underbelly

Two years ago, Canadian authorities were closely monitoring an alleged extremist group in Quebec when one suspect's comments on a gun culture podcast raised a red flag. He ominously warned listeners about a potential "another Waco," alluding to the infamous 1993 standoff that left many dead. However, it wasn't just his words that caused alarm—he also discussed upgrading the tires and suspension of his Toyota Tacoma pickup.

High-Stakes Surveillance Leads to Unexpected Risks

For two months, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had been secretly tracking the suspect using a concealed GPS device placed inside his truck. This automotive upgrade posed a risk to the covert operation, as it might have revealed the police's surveillance methods.

Unsealed Court Documents Shine a Light on the Investigation

Details of this tense investigation came to light following a court's decision to unseal documents revealing the RCMP's warrant applications. The case involves four men with military backgrounds, arrested last July for allegedly plotting terrorist activities. Notably, the RCMP managed to remove the tracking device before the suspect could discover it.

Profiles of the Alleged Extremists

The suspects, including Army Master Corporal Marc-Aurèle Chabot and former soldier Simon Angers-Audet, are accused of being key players in a group advocating for the establishment of a militia. Their conversations hinted at violent, right-wing extremist views.

A Multi-Faceted Investigation

The probe kicked off after the Canadian Security Intelligence Service alerted the RCMP about Chabot and his associates, who referred to themselves as "Hide and Stalk." After obtaining a warrant, police planted the GPS tracker on Chabot's truck on May 30, 2023, following their observation of the men during tactical drills a week earlier.

A Disturbing Podcast Reveal

Shortly after the tracker was installed, Chabot appeared on a podcast where he discussed the Waco siege, warning others not to confront those who are heavily armed. He suggested that his vehicle would be instrumental in executing unlawful scenarios.

Keeping Tabs Despite Setbacks

On July 11, 2023, the RCMP removed the GPS tracker, but they had already devised a backup plan. They secured warrants for cell phone geolocation data and soon tracked Chabot's movements to Rolphton, Ontario. Surveillance revealed that changes to his Tacoma's wheels and suspension had been made, prompting renewed efforts to install a tracker.

A Turn of Events in Early 2024

In an unexpected twist, police had to confront the situation more directly in January 2024 when a report about one suspect's suicidal state led to the seizure of 50 firearms from him. This event marked a crucial turning point, allowing the RCMP to conduct thorough searches of the suspects' homes and vehicles.

Conclusion: A Year-Long Investigation Culminates in Danger

Despite the police's early interventions, it would take a year and a half for the authorities to file actual charges against the suspects. This intricate web of surveillance and investigation illustrates the challenges law enforcement faces when dealing with potential threats in the realm of domestic extremism.