A Montreal minor arrested in a national security investigation allegedly used artificial intelligence while planning a potential attack on a school and posted threats targeting Muslims, Haitians and members of the LGBTQ+ community, according to new details provided by the RCMP to Rebel News.
The RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team arrested the youth Friday morning after investigators said they had reasonable grounds to believe the suspect might commit a violent extremism offence.
The investigation began several weeks ago after the FBI provided intelligence to Canadian authorities.
In response to an inquiry from Rebel News reporter Alexa Lavoie, the RCMP revealed additional details not included in its initial public statement.
“According to the alleged facts, the individual was planning an attack at a school located in Montreal,” the RCMP told Lavoie.
Police said the suspect “allegedly used artificial intelligence as part of the potential planning of an attack in the Montreal area.”
The RCMP also clarified who was allegedly targeted by threatening messages posted online.
“He also allegedly posted threatening statements on Telegram targeting various groups, including Muslim, Haitian and LGBTQ+ communities,” police said.
Investigators also executed a search warrant at the youth’s residence, seizing electronic devices and any other evidence considered relevant to the investigation.
The police operation was intended to disrupt the suspect’s alleged activities and require him to enter into a peace bond under Section 810.011 of the Criminal Code.
That provision allows authorities to seek a recognizance where there are reasonable grounds to fear a person may commit certain terrorism or criminal organization offences, without waiting for the feared offence to occur.
Despite the arrest, the investigation remains ongoing and charges could be laid at a later date.
“The investigation is ongoing, and all of the evidence will be analyzed,” the RCMP told Rebel News.
The youth was scheduled to appear Friday in Youth Court at the Montreal courthouse.
The RCMP characterized the investigation as involving ideologically motivated violent extremism and said combating such threats remains a national priority.
Hellbound and Down 