Justice minister wants debate on security measures after foiled attacks

Belgium’s Justice minister, Annelies Verlinden, has called for a debate on increasing the security of government ministers in order to prevent potential threats. "We mustn't wait for something to happen," she said.

On Thursday, police in Antwerp apprehended three young men suspected of planning a jihadist-inspired terrorist attack against several politicians, including prime minister Bart De Wever.

Three young men arrested in Antwerp over alleged terror plot targeting politicians

Antwerp police have arrested three young men suspected of planning a jihadist-inspired terrorist attack targeting politicians, the Belgian federal...

belganewsagency.eu

In an interview with VTM Nieuws on Sunday, Verlinden cited the thwarted attacks as a reason to re-examine security measures. She emphasised the need to strengthen a “culture of security” across society, particularly within political circles.

Currently, Belgian ministers do not receive standard security protection. Without revealing specific details, Verlinden said that certain ministers were under particular surveillance and that her own safety was being closely monitored.

Suspects aged 18 and 23

On Friday evening, the investigating judge in Antwerp arrested two of the three men, charging them with attempted terrorist murder, participation in the activities of a terrorist group and preparing a terrorist offence. The suspects are aged 18 and 23.

The police found an improvised explosive device that was not yet operational in the possession of the 18-year-old suspect. The 23-year-old suspect was found to be in possession of a 3D printer. The federal prosecutor's office believes that they planned to build a drone to which an explosive could be attached.

Wilders suspends campaign

According to Gazet van Antwerpen, Antwerp mayor Els van Doesburg was also among those targeted. Geert Wilders, leader of the Dutch PVV party, announced that he had also been named as a target and suspended his election campaign.

Both Belgian PM and Antwerp mayor possible targets of dismantled terrorist cell

Acting Antwerp mayor Els van Doesburg was also a possible target of the alleged terrorist cell that was dismantled on Thursday, according to Gazet...

belganewsagency.eu

Verlinden warned on Sunday that democracy and the rule of law are under pressure and referenced international incidents in which political figures have been targeted to spread messages of hatred. 

"We had hoped that terrorism would fade into the background, but this case shows that this is not the reality," she said.

^{Justice minister Annelies Verlinden © BELGA PHOTO JAMES ARTHUR GEKIERE}