CAF member charged following foreign influence investigation
A member of the Canadian Armed Forces has been arrested and charged after a major national security investigation revealed alleged foreign influence, shaking the foundations of Canada’s military.
A member of the Canadian Armed Forces has been arrested and charged after a major national security investigation revealed alleged foreign influence, shaking the foundations of Canada’s military.
National Defence said Thursday that Master Warrant Officer Matthew Robar, a member of the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command, was arrested on Wednesday by the Canadian Forces National Investigation Service, with assistance from the RCMP’s Integrated National Security and Enforcement Team in the Central Region.
Robar faces multiple charges under the National Defence Act, the Criminal Code and the Foreign Interference and Security of Information Act. These include one count of communicating special operational information and one count of breach of trust in respect of safeguarded information, both linked to alleged foreign interference.
He is also charged with two counts related to the improper storage of firearms, three counts of conduct to the prejudice of good order and discipline, and one count of feigning disease.
According to National Defence, the investigation began in 2024, focusing on the alleged unauthorized disclosure of safeguarded information to a foreign entity. The department said the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command cooperated fully with investigators throughout the probe.
Brig.-Gen. Vanessa Hanrahan, the Canadian Forces provost marshal, said the case highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
“The protection of national security relies on collaboration and precision,” Hanrahan said in a statement. “The success of this operation demonstrates the strength of joint policing efforts and what can be achieved when agencies and organizations work together toward a common goal.”
RCMP Federal Policing Central Region commander Matt Peggs said the investigation underscores the value of the partnership between the Mounties and military police in responding to national security threats.
“I am proud of the aligned effort to ensure national security threats are investigated in a timely manner, and those responsible are held accountable ensuring the safety of Canadians,” Peggs said.
If the charges proceed, the case will be heard by court martial in the military justice system. Robar is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The Foreign Interference and Security of Information Act came into force in 2024, replacing and expanding the former Security of Information Act as part of Bill C-70, which was introduced to address growing concerns over foreign interference.