German authorities charge two men for alleged terrorist attack planning

German prosecutors in Düsseldorf have filed charges against a 23-year-old apprentice from Unna and a 19-year-old from Hagen for allegedly conspiring to commit a crime under the War Weapons Control Act.

Authorities report that during September, the two suspects discussed potential jihadist attacks and the procurement of Kalashnikov assault rifles, which they allegedly sought to purchase for 1,000 euros each. Discussions reportedly included the potential use of knives, firearms, or vehicles to carry out an attack.

Special forces conducted raids in Hagen and Unna on October 1, though no weapons were recovered. The 23-year-old suspect, who is reportedly a recent convert to Islam, is currently in pre-trial detention. The 19-year-old suspect, a German-Kosovar citizen, remains under investigation but is not currently in custody. Two Syrian nationals were also involved in the initial investigation, but no charges have been brought against them.