Belgian authorities have apprehended three individuals accused of planning an attack involving explosives delivered by drone, with reports suggesting the country's leader was among those under threat.
The detentions occurred in Antwerp as part of an inquiry into "attempted terrorist killing and involvement in a terrorist organization," federal prosecutor Ann Fransen stated during a briefing.
"Evidence points to the group preparing an attack motivated by extremist ideology, targeting political figures," Fransen said. "They were also believed to be working on a drone designed to transport an explosive device."
Officials did not disclose the specific targets, but local media indicated that the prime minister, Bart De Wever, the former mayor of Antwerp, was among them.
Messages of solidarity with the prime minister and gratitude toward security personnel were shared by officials.
Investigators conducted a search near De Wever’s residence, where they uncovered an incomplete explosive mechanism and a container holding metal fragments at one suspect's home, according to Fransen.
At another location, authorities found a 3D printer suspected of being used to produce parts related to the alleged plot.
The individuals involved were born between 2001 and 2007.
Two remain in custody and are scheduled for a judicial hearing, while the third has been released.
Read next
"Indonesia school collapse: rescue efforts conclude with 67 fatalities"
Search Ends After Indonesian School Collapse Leaves Dozens Dead
Indonesian rescuers concluded their search on Tuesday for victims trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed Islamic boarding school in East Java, after recovering more than 60 bodies, authorities confirmed.
The tragedy in the town of Sidoarjo struck last week when
"French PM makes last-ditch effort to save government as crisis deepens – Europe updates"
France's Political Standoff Continues as Prime Minister Seeks Cross-Party Support
France remains at a political stalemate as the outgoing prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, makes a final attempt to gather support from rival parties for a new government.
President Emmanuel Macron assigned Lecornu, 39, to form a government in
"Macron calls emergency talks with parties to swiftly pick new PM"
Emmanuel Macron has called upon the leaders of several political factions to his office, urging them to demonstrate "collective responsibility" as he seeks to appoint a new prime minister amid growing political turmoil.
All parties except Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally, the largest opposition group, and