An Ottawa youth faces terrorism charges after police found materials that are used in creating explosive substances. They were located in a home when RCMP Federal Policing Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) executed a search warrant.
On Dec. 18, police said the youth, who can’t be named because of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was additionally charged with knowingly facilitating a terrorist activity by being in possession of explosive substances, possession of explosive substances with intent thereby to endanger life, and possession of explosive substances.
These charges are on top of the charges laid on Dec. 16 of facilitation of a terrorist activity by communicating instructional material related to an explosive substance, and knowingly instructing a person to carry out a terrorist activity against Jewish persons.
RCMP concerned about growing trend of violent extremism
The RCMP is concerned with the growing trend of violent extremism, in particular, the increase in youth involvement. If you have concerns that someone is considering, planning, or preparing to commit an act of violence or to help others in committing acts of terrorism, please contact your local police service. It is incumbent to report any suspicious behaviour. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, or the safety of others, please dial 911.
Non‐emergency tips can be reported to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1‐800‐420‐5805 or by email at RCMP.NSIN-RISN.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.
Warning signs of radicalization:
Advanced recognition of the early warning signs of radicalization to violence and intervening at an early stage is essential in helping to prevent an individual from participating in criminal activities, and mobilizing towards violent behaviour.
Violent extremism, whether it is religiously, politically or ideologically motivated, continues to represent a significant threat to public safety. The persistent threats of extremist violence and terrorist violence must be taken seriously. It is important to understand that extremism can stem from a range of motivations and personal grievances, driven by hatred and fear, and includes a complex range of threat actors. (Source: CSIS Public Report 2022)
RCMP are asking adults in positions of authority (i.e. parents, guardians, teachers, coaches) to be alert for behaviours of concern which may be linked to violent extremism or other issues which should not be ignored:
- Increasingly exclusive association with new social groups supporting or promoting violence;
- Expression of antagonistic “us vs. them” attitudes or the belief that violence is the only solution to perceived problems;
- Dehumanization of others; the conviction that their pain or suffering does not matter or is somehow deserved or just;
- Extreme anti-government attitudes;
- Clear statements of intention to carry out violent acts;
- Attempts to recruit or co-opt others to the cause.
If you have concerns that someone is considering, planning, or preparing to commit an act of violence or to help others in committing acts of terrorism, contacting your local police department would be a good first step. The sooner the better, as they may be able to help prevent someone from crossing the line into criminal actions.
If you prefer to contact the RCMP directly, non‐emergency tips can be reported to the RCMP National Security Information Network by phone at 1‐800‐420‐5805 or by email at RCMP.NSIN-RISN.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, please call 911.
