Switzerland sees record high in jihadist terrorism investigations

Swiss federal prosecutors are currently conducting 140 investigations into suspected jihadist terrorism, marking the highest number of such cases on record. This figure represents a significant increase from 2020, when there were approximately 70 cases, and exceeds the 120 proceedings handled in 2024.

The investigations cover various activities, including recruitment for banned terrorist organizations, financing, propaganda dissemination, travel to join jihadist groups, and the return of foreign fighters. Some cases specifically involve alleged preparations for attacks.

Legal proceedings are also increasing. Between 2022 and 2025, the Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland filed 17 indictments before the Federal Criminal Court. Since the beginning of 2026, five additional cases have been sent to the court in Bellinzona. In a related development, a trial is set to begin in Bellinzona for an 18-year-old from Aargau accused of planning a knife attack on random victims in the name of Islamic State (IS).