In a major operation, German authorities have arrested seven individuals in western Germany on suspicion of establishing an Islamist terrorist cell, according to prosecutors. The detainees are also accused of providing support to the notorious terrorist organization, the Islamic State (ISIS).
Prosecutors have disclosed that the arrested men originate from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan. They were apprehended in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, located in western Germany. The individuals had reportedly been acquainted for a significant period and entered Germany from Ukraine shortly after the outbreak of the war in 2022.
In a related development, Dutch authorities have also detained a man and his wife who are believed to have connections with the same group. The man in custody is suspected of being a member of the alleged terrorist cell.
According to prosecutors, the detained individuals entered Germany with the aim of carrying out high-profile terror attacks in a style reminiscent of the Islamic State. The motivation behind these planned attacks appears to be retaliation for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
German and Dutch authorities are working closely together to conduct further investigations and gather additional information about the alleged terrorist group, including any potential links to other extremist networks. These arrests represent a significant milestone in counterterrorism efforts, emphasizing the ongoing necessity for vigilance and international cooperation among security agencies in combating the threat posed by extremist organizations.
(With inputs from DPA)
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