A 25-year-old man from Menen (West Flanders) has been referred to the correctional court on charges of terrorism.
The man, of Chechen origin, reportedly planned, together with his partner, an attack in Antwerp’s Jewish district. Three other suspects will have to answer to the criminal court.
The investigation commenced when the suspect began showing signs of radicalisation in spring 2023. The young man appeared to sympathise with the Islamic State. Conversations regarding a terrorist attack, targeting a gay bar and the Jewish district, emerged on the messaging app, Telegram.
In his pursuit of weapons and accomplices, the man met with an undercover agent who rapidly gained his trust.
On 4 May, house searches were carried out in Roeselare, Menen, Ostend, Wevelgem, and Ghent. Seven individuals of Chechen origin were detained, suspected of being involved in a terrorist group, attempted terrorism, as well as preparing for a terrorist act.
On Friday morning, the federal prosecution requested the chamber council to refer five suspects to the correctional court. While the man is viewed as the central figure, his wife will also have to answer charges of attempted terrorist murder.
Additionally, his brother and two acquaintances have been referred to the correctional court due to their lesser involvement in the case. One of these acquaintances was placed under electronic surveillance by the chamber on Friday, allowing him to leave the prison; the other acquaintance had previously been released conditionally.
