Belgium detains 3 over suspected plot to attack politicians

ISTANBUL

Belgian authorities have detained three people suspected of planning a terrorist attack targeting politicians, the Federal Prosecutor’s Office announced Thursday.

In a statement, prosecutors said three suspects, born in 2001, 2002, and 2007 and residing in the northern city of Antwerp, were arrested as part of an investigation into “attempted terrorist murder and participation in the activities of a terrorist group.”

Investigators reportedly found indications that the suspects intended to carry out an attack on politicians.

During searches of their homes, police discovered a non-functioning improvised explosive device (IED)-like object, a bag filled with steel balls, and a 3D printer believed to have been used to produce parts for an attack.

Authorities also said the suspects appeared to be interested in building drones capable of carrying heavy loads.

While two suspects remain in custody and are being questioned by Antwerp federal police, one was released earlier in the day, the statement added.

Prosecutors declined to provide further details to avoid jeopardizing the investigation.

The statement noted that nearly 80 terrorism-related investigations have been opened in Belgium so far this year, surpassing the number recorded during the same period in 2024.

Local newspaper Het Gazet van Antwerpen reported that Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever was among the politicians allegedly targeted by the suspects.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot described the alleged plot as “deeply shocking” on the US social media company X, expressing support for De Wever and his family and thanking security services for preventing the attack.

“The event reminds us that the terrorist threat remains real,” Prevot said, adding that Belgium is “actively strengthening its capabilities to combat new forms of terrorism, including the malicious use of drones.”