PARIS — Authorities in the French capital successfully prevented what officials believe was a terrorist bombing attempt targeting a Bank of America facility, law enforcement announced Saturday. Officers arrested one individual involved in the plot, though a second suspect remains at large.
France’s national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office, known as PNAT, confirmed to The Associated Press that investigators have launched a formal terrorism probe into the incident.
The charges being considered include attempting to cause destruction through fire or dangerous methods, creating incendiary or explosive materials, possessing and transporting such devices with intent to cause harm, and participating in a terrorist organization.
One individual has been taken into police custody in connection with the incident.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez praised law enforcement’s swift response, stating: “Well done to the rapid intervention of a Paris police prefecture unit, which made it possible to thwart a violent act of a terrorist nature overnight in Paris.”
The minister emphasized continued security concerns, adding: “Vigilance remains at a very high level. I commend all security and intelligence forces, fully mobilized under my authority in the current international context.”
According to RTL radio, which cited law enforcement sources, the incident unfolded in the early morning hours Saturday when officers observed two individuals carrying a shopping bag near the Bank of America location in Paris’s 8th district.
RTL reported that one suspect was seen with a lighter, trying to set fire to a device, while the accomplice successfully fled the area. Paris police officials have not provided additional comment on the details.
Earlier this week, Nuñez revealed that French security forces have enhanced protection for certain Iranian opposition figures and increased surveillance at potential targets, including locations connected to American interests and Jewish community sites, following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran.
