Teens Detained in Germany for Suspected Terror Plot

In a concerning development, German authorities recently apprehended two teenage boys, aged 15 and 16, on suspicion of planning a militant Islamist attack.

The younger, a German-Afghan from Burscheid, and the older, a Russian national from Wittstock/Dosse, allegedly conspired to target a Christmas market in Leverkusen with an explosion, reminiscent of the Islamic State’s tactics.

The plan, according to investigations, involved using a van loaded with incendiary devices. Notably, the 15-year-old had reportedly acquired gasoline for this purpose. The plot’s discovery came after a foreign tip-off, leading to the swift action by security forces. Both teenagers communicated via the Telegram app, discussing various scenarios, including attacking a synagogue.

The investigation’s initial focus was Cologne, but later shifted to Leverkusen. The potential date for the attack was set for early December. This incident has renewed fears in Germany, echoing the tragic 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack where a jihadist drove a lorry into a crowd, killing 13.

Thomas Haldenwang, head of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution (BfV), highlighted the persistent and heightened risk of Islamist militant attacks in Germany. He pointed to various groups promoting hatred and antisemitism, with jihadist organizations like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State exploiting the Israel-Hamas conflict to incite Muslims in the West.

Furthermore, plans were uncovered for the teenagers to flee to Afghanistan after the attack and join the Islamic State – Khorasan Province, a formidable branch of the group known for its extensive attacks in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal.

The 15-year-old faces charges of conspiring for murder and preparing a severe act endangering state security, with a potential ten-year juvenile sentence. The 16-year-old, also in custody, is known for his violent tendencies and health issues. Both are held under suspicion of planning a terrorist attack.

This incident is part of a broader context where German authorities remain vigilant against Islamist terrorism. A recent case in Duisburg involved the arrest of a previously convicted Islamist who planned an attack on a pro-Israeli demonstration.

Security experts continue to warn about the shortening preparation phase for such attacks, with easily accessible means like incendiary devices and vehicles. The prompt response by German authorities in this case demonstrates the effectiveness of their early warning systems, emphasizing their commitment to public safety, especially during sensitive events like Christmas markets and near Jewish institutions.