Indigenous communities on Côte-Nord targeted by gang recruitment

Criminal organizations are increasingly targeting Indigenous communities on Quebec’s Côte-Nord to recruit “soldiers,” according to local authorities. In the community of Uashat mak Mani-utenam, near Sept-Îles, violent crime has risen significantly, with reported crimes against persons increasing from 561 in 2024 to 650 in 2025, a 15.9% jump over two years.

Conflict between groups including the Hells Angels, Blood Family Mafia (BFM), and the North Savage Gang (NSG) has brought arson, shootings, and the exploitation of minors to the region. Police and community leaders report that vulnerable adolescents as young as 14 and 15 are being recruited and used by these organizations.

In response to the rising violence, the Uashat mak Mani-utenam council has implemented advanced security measures, including the installation of AI-powered smart cameras at community entrances to monitor vehicle plates and occupancy.