I would suggest you consider calling the Family Violence support line (310-1818) and seeing if they have any specifically targeted advice that could help you and your friends get a better handle on what's really happening.
http://www.humanservices.alberta.ca/...ing/15666.html
For you and your friends to get a full idea of what's really happening will likely be slow and time consuming, but hopefully you can get some tips on how to get this information discreetly and carefully. All I can say is I'm grateful you care enough to reach out and try to do something. Many wait until it's too late as it can be extremely awkward to try to do anything in these situations with people who don't want or feel they need any help. Good luck.