German Prosecutors Charge Man with Terrorism Offenses
In a dramatic turn of events, German prosecutors have announced terrorism charges against a man believed to have plotted an attack on the Israeli Embassy in Berlin and sought to join the Islamic State group in Pakistan.
The suspect, known only as Akhmad E in accordance with German privacy laws, was apprehended on 20 February at the Berlin airport as he was about to board a flight.
He now faces charges of supporting a foreign terrorist organization, attempting to become a member of such a group, and preparing for a serious act of violence.
According to federal prosecutors, the suspect initially had plans to carry out an attack in Germany, possibly targeting the Israeli embassy.
Although he allegedly accessed bomb-making instructions online, he was hindered from proceeding due to difficulties in obtaining the necessary materials.
Simultaneously, he was said to be translating propaganda materials into Russian and Chechen for the extremist group.
Prosecutors claim that his ultimate goal was to travel to Pakistan to undergo military training with the group, financing the trip by fraudulently selling expensive smartphones obtained through contracts.
Prior to his departure, he reportedly sent a video pledging allegiance to an IS member outside of Germany.
The indictment was submitted to a Berlin court earlier this month, which will now deliberate on whether to proceed with a trial. — Euronews
