Belgian authorities have thwarted a suspected terrorist plot involving a drone carrying explosives, targeting prominent politicians including Prime Minister Bart De Wever. On Thursday, three individuals were detained following coordinated raids in Antwerp, led by an anti-terrorism judge and supported by explosives detection units. Federal prosecutors revealed that an improvised device, steel balls, and a 3D printer—believed to be used for constructing attack components—were discovered during the searches. Investigators indicated that the suspects intended to build a drone to deliver a payload, potentially inspired by jihadist ideologies. While the politicians targeted were not explicitly named, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot confirmed the plot’s focus on Prime Minister De Wever, describing the incident as ‘deeply shocking.’ The suspects, described as young adults born in 2001, 2002, and 2007, were questioned, with two set to appear before a judge and the third released. This incident underscores Belgium’s ongoing struggle with terrorism, particularly the misuse of drones, as highlighted by recent suspicious drone activity near a military base. The Belgian justice system, already strained by a surge in terrorism investigations and drug-related crime, has called for increased government support to bolster security measures. The 2016 Brussels bombings, which claimed 32 lives, remain a stark reminder of the nation’s vulnerability to terrorist threats.
Belgian police detain 3 over a suspected plot to attack politicians with a drone
