Belgium: Update on Terror Plot

Translation by Fousesquawk

According to Belgian press reports, the suspected terrorists arrested yesterday in Antwerp were also targeting Dutch politician Geert Wilder for assassination, as well as Belgian Prime Minister Bart de Wever, both outspoken critics of Islamic immigration and the threat it poses to their countries and Europe.

One of the suspects is identified by De Morgen as A.B, a 23-year-old of Chechen origin. HLN further identifies him as Abdullah B.

The other suspect is an 18-year-old man of Moroccan origin, named only as E.J.

In the interest of time, we have only translated the first few paragraphs with the relevant information. Time allowing, the complete article from De Morgen will be translated later.

Two suspects held in investigation into Antwerp terror cell: Geert Wilders also named as possible target, election campaign suspended

The two suspects arrested yesterday in the investigation into the Antwerp terror cell, who had Premier Bart de Wever (N-VA) as a target, have been ordered held in custody by the investigating judge. Meanwhile, Dutch politician Geert Wilders confirms that he was also named as a target.

Caption: Premier Bart de Wever (N-VA)

One of the suspects being held is A.B., a 23-year-old of Chechen origin from Borsbeek, who was found with a 3D printer. "My client is cooperating with the investigation and has made a statement," says his lawyer, Sven de Potter. 

He is suspected of a number of terrorist offenses and has been ordered held in custody by the investigating judge. He will appear before the Council Chamber on Wednesday, which will decide on his further custody. As to the contents of his questioning, I cannot say. He is deeply affected by what has happened."

The other suspect is E.J., an 18-year-old young man with Moroccan roots from Sint-Rochusstraat in Deume, close to the residence of De Wever. Components for an explosive (device) were found yesterday in his possession.

Both were taking security training courses, one at a secondary school, the other at a college. The Sint-Norbertus Institute made it clear to the press that making explosives was not part of the training. The two will appear on Wednesday before the Council Chamber, the Federal Prosecutor's Office reports.