German authorities foil planned Christmas market attack
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German authorities announced they have foiled an imminent terrorist plot targeting a Christmas market in Bavaria, southern Germany, in a preemptive security operation.
Five suspects were arrested for their alleged direct involvement in planning an attack using a vehicle, with the intent to cause maximum casualties among shoppers.
According to official statements from police and prosecutors, the suspects include an Egyptian national, three Moroccans, and a Syrian national.
Investigations indicate coordinated planning, specifically targeting a market in Dingolfing-Landau. Authorities said the attackers intended to use a car to “run over and kill or injure as many people as possible.”
All five suspects appeared before an investigating judge on Saturday, and a decision was made to keep them in custody while investigations continue.
The operation comes amid heightened security in Germany ahead of the busy Christmas market season, recalling last year’s deadly vehicle attack in Magdeburg, which killed six people and injured hundreds. Authorities continue to tighten surveillance to prevent similar incidents.
