News release

Threats to critical infrastructure: individual charged

August 6, 2025 - Montreal, Quebec
From: Federal Policing Eastern Region

Content

RCMP Federal Policing – Eastern Region announces the arrest and laying of charges against an individual who allegedly made online threats regarding critical infrastructure in Quebec.

Christian Barriault, 38, of Montréal allegedly posted threatening comments on his X account, counselling attacks on key infrastructure such as Montréal-Trudeau airport, the Port of Montréal, Hydro-Québec control centres and various transportation networks.

The investigation was taken over by the RCMP’s Integrated National Security Enforcement Team following a report from Hydro-Québec’s security department via the Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM). Following a short investigation, police arrested Mr. Barriault on August 1, seizing electronic equipment. Mr. Barriault is facing three charges under the Criminal Code:

• Uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm to any person (s. 264.1(1)(a))
• Uttering threats to burn, destroy or damage real or personal property (s. 264.1 (1)(b))
• Counselling an offence that is not committed, namely commission of mischief (s. 464(a))

He appeared at the Montréal courthouse by videoconference on August 4.

Appeal to the public

The RCMP takes seriously any threats that can affect one’s sense of security. Violent statements will not be tolerated. Perpetrators may face criminal charges involving significant sentences. Such incidents must be reported if we are to combat this type of crime.

Do you have information on the illegal activities of individuals or groups of individuals? Contact the RCMP at 514-939-8300/1-800-771-5401, the National Security Information Network (1-800-420-5805) or your local police department.

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