Belgium's law enforcement agencies have successfully intervened in a serious threat against Prime Minister Bart de Wever, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. Prosecutors labeled the alleged scheme as a 'jihadist-inspired terrorist attack' aimed not just at de Wever, but potentially at other political figures as well.
During police searches in Deurne, Antwerp—near the prime minister's residence—authorities discovered what appeared to be an improvised explosive device. The investigation further revealed plans to deploy a drone, suggesting that the attack was meticulously plotted.
Although the prosecutor's office did not specifically identify all intended victims, Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot confirmed that de Wever was among those targeted. He expressed his shock over the planned assault, underscoring that this incident reflects a tangible terrorist threat that necessitates heightened vigilance.
The suspects, aged 16 to 23, were apprehended on charges of attempted murder in connection with terrorist activities. Their arrests followed searches supported by explosive detection canines, during which officials seized critical evidence including steel balls and a 3D printer, which indicated their efforts to create drone weaponry.
Federal prosecutors reported that there had been an alarming spike in terrorism investigations within Belgium this year, with eighty cases opened—surpassing the total from the previous year. This development recalls a similar incident from April, in which five individuals were convicted for plotting to assault de Wever when he served as mayor of Antwerp.
