A 15-year-old boy from the Edmonton area has been arrested by the RCMP for a terrorism-related offence tied to a violent and extremist online network known as COM/764. The arrest, carried out on May 12 by the RCMP’s National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) in Alberta, comes amid concerns the boy may commit terrorism offences.According to the RCMP, the youth has been remanded into custody and proceedings have begun under a terrorism peace bond pursuant to section 810.011 of the Criminal Code — which allows authorities to act when there is fear that an individual may engage in terrorism.Investigators allege the youth’s activities are connected to the COM/764 network, a transnational and highly disturbing online group. The group is known for targeting vulnerable youth, encouraging them to commit acts of sexual violence, self-harm, and animal torture. Authorities say the network promotes extreme ideologies and aims to desensitize and radicalize children through online manipulation.The accused is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Edmonton for a bail hearing on June 3.Due to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, no further identifying information about the individual can be released. The RCMP emphasized that the criminal investigation remains ongoing and declined to comment further at this time.“In the face of networks like 764 — which includes youth perpetrators targeting other vulnerable young people online — education is our first line of defense, empowering young people to recognize manipulation, resist extremism, and reclaim the internet as a space for growth, not grooming,” stated RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region.The RCMP continues to work with both Canadian and international partners to address threats from violent online groups and protect public safety. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Non-emergency tips can be shared with the RCMP National Security Information Network at 1-800-420-5805 or online at www.rcmp.ca/report-it. Immediate threats should be reported to 9-1-1 or local police.
