German investigation into suspected Islamist terror plot

German federal prosecutors began reviewing an investigation into three men suspected of planning an Islamist terror attack following special forces raids in Hagen and Unna on October 1. North Rhine-Westphalia Interior Minister Herbert Reul stated that authorities believed a serious incident was prevented, noting that while the attack was not imminent, the plans could have been realized.

By late October, prosecutors in Düsseldorf 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 reported that during September, the suspects discussed potential jihadist attacks and the procurement of Kalashnikov assault rifles. Discussions reportedly included the potential use of knives, firearms, or vehicles.

The 23-year-old suspect remains in pre-trial detention, while the 19-year-old suspect remains under investigation but is not in custody. Two Syrian nationals were initially involved in the investigation, but no charges were brought against them.