BERLIN, Dec 10: Authorities announced on Tuesday that two young men with ties to the Islamic State group, along with a suspected associate, have been arrested in Germany for allegedly plotting an attack.
The two suspects, a 15-year-old and a 20-year-old German-Lebanese brothers hailing from Mannheim, and a 22-year-old man of Turkish descent from the neighboring state of Hesse, were taken into custody on Sunday, as stated by prosecutors and police.
The brothers are charged with preparing for an assault driven by their religious beliefs and a “strong affinity” for the Islamic State, including the acquisition of an assault rifle and ammunition. The weapon was recovered from the residence of the 22-year-old, according to the statement.
Investigators also uncovered a balaclava, a bulletproof vest, several knives, and mobile phones. A judge has ordered that the suspects remain in custody while awaiting a potential indictment.
Prosecutors and police noted that there was never a “concrete threat to the public” and did not disclose any specific plans or targets for an attack. (AP)
