Following the arrest of three suspected members of the Islamist terrorist organization Hamas in Berlin, anti-terrorism investigators have also executed searches of residences in Leipzig, Saxony. The information was reported by “Der Spiegel”, citing security sources.
According to the report, officers of the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) had previously monitored the suspects as they convened in Berlin on Wednesday for what appeared to be a weapons transfer. During the arrests, police reportedly discovered functional weapons, including a Glock pistol, an AK-47 automatic assault rifle and several hundred rounds of ammunition. Forensic technicians are currently examining the discovered weaponry.
The individuals apprehended include a 36-year-old German of Lebanese origin, a 43-year-old man born in Lebanon with an unclear nationality and a 44-year-old German originating from Syria. Investigations suggest that Hamas allegedly tasked the suspects with procuring weapons and ammunition within Germany. Security sources indicate that the intended purpose may have involved potential attacks on Jewish and Israeli facilities within the country.
The Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office is accusing the suspects of membership in a foreign terrorist organization and preparing for serious acts of violence endangering the state. The suspects are expected to be brought before the Federal Court of Justice, which will decide whether to issue arrest warrants. Representatives of the defense teams for the accused were unavailable for comment.