Teenager detained in Belgium over plot to attack mosque

Law enforcement officers in the Molenbeek district of Belgium have detained a 14-year-old Ukrainian teenager suspected of planning a terrorist attack on the local Annaja mosque. 

Details of the detention

According to information published by the Actu17 portal, the detainee is a native of Ukraine. Prosecutors stated that the teenager held far-right views and planned to carry out an attack on Friday, the day when mosques are visited by the largest number of worshippers.

During a search of his home, police seized cold weapons, including knives, as well as three pistols, compasses, computer equipment, and items bearing swastika symbols. These findings formed the basis for charges of preparing a terrorist act and planning murders.

Authorities' reaction

Belgian Justice Minister Paul Van Tigchelt expressed concern about the situation, emphasising that modern technologies, including the internet, play a key role in the rapid radicalisation of young people. He stated that radical content available online poses a serious threat to public safety.

"The case of this teenager is a warning sign that shows how easily young people can fall under the influence of extremist ideas. We must strengthen control over the online space to prevent similar situations in the future," the minister noted.