Arrest Made Near Iranian Consulate in Paris Amid Explosive Threat
PARIS — In a dramatic turn of events, armed police in Paris have apprehended a suspect near the Iranian consulate, situated just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Elite officers belonging to France’s renowned BRI intervention brigade swiftly swooped in on the scene after receiving reports of a man entering the consulate premises, with suspicions of him carrying a grenade or an explosive vest.
According to French media, the suspect was eventually seen exiting the building, leading to his detainment by law enforcement at approximately 14:45 local time (12:45 GMT).
Dramatic images captured at the site depict the police officers apprehending the individual in close proximity to the consulate, followed by a thorough search conducted by the BRI operatives, which revealed that the suspect was not in possession of any explosives.
Reports suggest that the man had barged into the consulate around 11:00, proclaiming his intent to avenge the demise of his brother.
As a safety measure, surrounding streets in the bustling 16th district of Paris were sealed off by authorities, with the Paris prefect swiftly deploying BRI police forces to the vicinity.
Although the exact nature of the threat remains ambiguous, the situation prompted transportation officials to suspend Paris metro services in the nearby area, as the consulate’s location near Trocadero and the River Seine draws throngs of tourists on a daily basis. — BBC
