Belgium Charges Three with Planning Terrorist Attack
In a significant development, Belgian prosecutors have charged three individuals with planning a terrorist attack in the country. The trio, all of whom are alleged to be linked to the Islamic State (IS) extremist group, are accused of plotting to carry out a violent attack on Belgian soil.
According to sources, the three suspects, whose identities have not been released, were arrested in the city of Antwerp in February of this year. An investigation was subsequently launched, which uncovered a cache of weapons, explosives, and other materials that were allegedly intended for use in the planned attack.
Prosecutors have accused the suspects of forming a terrorist cell, which was tasked with carrying out a "serious and brutal" attack in Belgium. The trio is said to have been in regular contact with IS operatives in Syria and Iraq, and had received instructions on how to carry out the attack.
"We have dismantled a terrorist cell that was planning a serious and brutal attack on Belgian soil," said Belgian prosecutor, Ine Van Wymeersch. "We take these threats extremely seriously and will do everything in our power to prevent such attacks from happening."
The charges against the three suspects include conspiracy to commit terrorist attacks, possession of weapons and explosives, and participating in the activities of a terrorist organization.
Belgium has been a key target for Islamic State extremists in recent years, with a number of attacks and plots foiled by security services. In 2016, three coordinated attacks were carried out in Brussels, killing 32 people and injuring hundreds more.
The recent charges come as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by extremist groups like IS, and the need for vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
"This is a significant arrest and a major blow to the IS network in Belgium," said Frédéric Van Leeuw, head of the Belgian Federal Police. "We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent and disrupt terrorist plots, and to bring those responsible to justice."
The three suspects are currently being held in custody, awaiting trial. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison.
The Belgian government has also praised the work of the security services and the prosecutor’s office, saying that their efforts have helped to prevent a potential disaster.
"We are grateful for the dedication and professionalism of our security services, who have worked tirelessly to prevent this attack," said Belgian Prime Minister, Charles Michel. "We will continue to do everything in our power to keep our citizens safe and to combat the threat of terrorism."
https://www.jpost.com/international/islamic-terrorism/article-812059