French authorities have arrested three individuals in connection with a thwarted bomb attack targeting Bank of America's headquarters in Paris, marking the latest in a series of suspected terrorist incidents across Europe.
The incident unfolded at approximately 3:30 a.m. local time on Saturday in Paris's 8th arrondissement, just streets away from the famous Champs-Élysées. Police officers spotted two men near the bank building, with one suspect placing a device containing five liters of liquid fuel and an ignition system close to the building before being detained at the scene.
The initial suspect, identified as a minor, was accompanied by a second individual who appeared to be documenting the incident with a mobile phone. This accomplice fled when police arrived but was among two additional suspects arrested on Sunday as the investigation expanded.
Forensic analysis revealed the device contained approximately 650 grams of explosive powder alongside the fuel and ignition components. The object has been transferred to a specialized laboratory for comprehensive examination.
In this type of conflict, you have a number of Iranian services that are likely to carry out actions such as these through proxies. There is a significant suspicion, but it is for the investigation to determine.
Laurent Nuñez, Interior Minister — BBC
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez suggested the attack could be linked to ongoing tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. He indicated that similar attacks have been prevented in other European nations, including the Netherlands, Britain, and Norway, prompting increased security measures across the continent.
According to police sources, the first arrested suspect was allegedly recruited through the social media platform Snapchat and offered 600 euros to carry out the bombing. This detail highlights the evolving methods used to recruit individuals for terrorist activities through digital platforms.
France's national anti-terrorism prosecutor's office has assumed control of the investigation, examining charges including attempted damage by fire or dangerous means in connection with terrorist activities, and participation in a terrorist criminal conspiracy. Under French law, terrorism suspects can be held for up to 96 hours, with possible court-ordered extensions.
The investigation involves multiple agencies, including the Paris judicial police and France's domestic intelligence service, the General Directorate for Internal Security. French authorities have heightened security around institutions and sites connected to American interests and Jewish communities following recent escalations in Middle Eastern conflicts.
Well done to the rapid intervention of a Paris police prefecture unit, which made it possible to thwart a violent act of a terrorist nature overnight in Paris. Vigilance remains at a very high level.