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Belgium Arrests Three in Suspected Drone-Bomb Plot Targeting Politicians, Including the Prime Minister

Prosecutors cite a jihadist motive alongside evidence of a weaponized drone plan, highlighting Belgium's push to counter evolving tactics during a rise in terrorism cases.

Overview

  • Federal raids in Antwerp uncovered an inactive improvised device, a bag of steel or metal pellets, and a 3D printer believed to be used for attack components.
  • Investigators say there are indications the suspects intended to attach an explosive payload to a drone to target political figures.
  • Three suspects born in 2001, 2002 and 2007 were detained; two remain in custody and were due before an investigating judge on Friday, while a third was released.
  • Prosecutors opened a case for attempted terrorist murder and participation in a terrorist group and declined to name targets as ministers signaled Bart De Wever was among them.
  • Operations involved bomb squads and explosives-sniffer dogs near De Wever’s Antwerp residence, and officials say the national threat level stays at serious with about 80 new terrorism cases this year.