While in Canada, a man used social media to issue threats to attack United Nations (UN) personnel if they did not leave the Democratic Republic of Congo. His threats ultimately lead to his arrest in Canada.
In February of 2022, the RCMP Sensitive and International investigations (SII) team began an investigation into Mr. Gaston Bilali-Mtemi's threats towards the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO). Mr. Mtemi allegedly used a variety of platforms on the internet to make threats toward MONUSCO personnel. Evidence indicates that he demanded they leave the country and that there would be dire consequences if they didn't.
The RCMP SII took these threats extremely seriously and initiated a criminal investigation that led to the execution of a search warrant at Mr. Mtemi's home.
Setting Canadian precedent, Mr. Mtemi (35) of Quebec City, is the first Canadian to be arrested and charged for:
- Threats to the United Nations Mission Personnel - contrary to Section 424.1(a) of the Criminal Code
Court for Mtemi will be at the Quebec City Courthouse, 300 boulevard Jean-Lesage, Québec (Québec), November 8, 2023 at 9:15 a.m.
The RCMP would like to thank the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) for their assistance and cooperation during this investigation.
"This investigation is a great example of collaboration between the RCMP and our international partners. It demonstrates how far the arm of the law can reach, when we work together to keep our nation safe". Insp. Stephanie Rousseau, Acting Officer in Charge, Sensitive and International Investigations Unit, O Division
Fast facts
The SII unit investigates sensitive and international crimes threatening Canada's interests such as those directed towards the institutions of government, public officials, the integrity of the Crown, or otherwise imperil Canada's political, economic and social integrity. The unit is also focused on extra-territorial investigations where Canadians are victims abroad. This work is carried out through close collaboration within the organization and with our various national and international partners.