“This foiled attack brings back painful memories of previous IS attacks, specifically the deadly attack on the Bataclan in Paris in 2015 that killed 89 concertgoers, and the thought that such a tragedy could happen again almost ten years later is shocking.” – stated Flemish MP Ortwin Depoortere of the Vlaams Belang party.
Belgian authorities have detained four Muslim males, including three minors aged between 15 and 18, suspected of having ties with Islamic jihadist groups and planning a terrorist attack. According to statements from the Belgian Public Prosecution Service, the arrests were made during coordinated searches conducted in Brussels, Ninove, Charleroi, and Liège.
The spokesperson for the prosecution, Eric Van Der Sypt, confirmed the arrests, emphasizing the seriousness of the suspicions. He stated, “They are suspected of planning a terrorist attack in Belgium.” The relative youth of the Muslim terror suspects has heightened concerns among authorities. Van Der Sypt highlighted the speed at which jihad attacks can unfold, underscoring the necessity to mitigate risks promptly.
The investigation revealed that the four suspects had established connections through online messaging platforms. Allegedly influenced by jihadist ideologies and the Islamic State, they engaged in discussions regarding violent actions, prompting law enforcement intervention. Reports indicate that a Brussels concert hall was among the potential targets discussed by the group.
Law enforcement agencies conducted simultaneous raids in multiple locations, seizing electronic devices for further investigation. Although no weapons or explosives were discovered during the searches, authorities stressed the gravity of the situation. Van Der Sypt emphasized the importance of swift intervention, particularly in cases involving “radicalized” minors susceptible to external influences.
The nature and extent of the suspects’ plans are currently under scrutiny. While details remain subject to investigation, the authorities emphasize the need for proactive measures to address Islamic terror threats. Concerns over online radicalization, particularly among youth, have become increasingly prevalent, necessitating vigilant monitoring and intervention strategies.
The arrests have prompted shock and concern, especially given the age of the youngest suspect, a 15-year-old residing in Ninove. Tania De Jonge, the mayor of Ninove, expressed astonishment at the involvement of such young individuals in suspected terrorist activities. Despite prior unawareness of the suspect’s radicalization, local authorities emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of evolving jihad threats.
Belgian’s only conservative party, Vlaams Belang, has voiced major concerns about this development. According to the party, Belgians have turned a blind eye to the Islamic threat in the country for too long. “This brings back painful memories of previous IS [Islamic State] attacks. The young age of the suspects is also frightening. It makes it clear that the specter of Islamic terrorist danger has still not gone away,” said Flemish MP Ortwin Depoortere in response.
Belgian authorities have maintained a state of alertness since the 2016 Muslim terror attacks that claimed 32 lives in Brussels. Recent jihad attacks, including the fatal shooting of two Swedish football fans by a Tunisian assailant last October, underscore the persistent threat of Islamic terrorism within the country.
As the investigation unfolds, the four terror suspects are undergoing questioning, with further legal proceedings pending. The arrests serve as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by Islamic supremacists of all ages and the imperative of preemptive measures to safeguard against potential jihad threats to public safety.
News Link: https://rairfoundation.com/islamic-attack-foiled-belgium-four-muslim-teenagers-arrested/
