Brussels authorities have arrested several French nationals, including one minor, in a cross-border operation that uncovered a suspected plot to kidnap and torture victims. The arrests took place on Monday, March 10, following a coordinated effort between Belgian and French law enforcement agencies.
According to the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Federal Judicial Police of Brussels’ organised crime division, working alongside the special units of the Federal Police, intercepted ten French nationals. Among them, nine were adults, while one was a minor.
Arrests and Charges
On Wednesday, spokesperson Martin François of the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that eight individuals had been placed under arrest by the examining magistrate in charge of the case.
“Eight individuals were placed under arrest by the examining magistrate in charge of the case,” François stated.
The suspects face charges of attempted robbery with violence in a gang with a vehicle at night and criminal conspiracy to commit a crime. The minor involved in the case has been referred to the juvenile court.
Cross-Border Cooperation
The arrests stemmed from an alert issued by police in Belgium regarding a message linked to an ongoing French court case handled by the BRI (Brigade de recherche et d’intervention) in Versailles, France. Authorities in France had flagged concerns about a vehicle that could potentially be used for an imminent violent act against one or more unidentified victims.
Belgian law enforcement traced the vehicle’s movements and determined that it was en route to Brussels. Given the potential risk to individuals residing in the region, the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office immediately launched an investigation in collaboration with the Public Prosecutor of the Republic of Pontoise.
“Out of fear that the possible victim(s) would live there, the Public Prosecutor’s Office in Brussels immediately launched an investigation in close cooperation with the Public Prosecutor of the Republic of Pontoise,” François stated.
The investigation led authorities to a suspicious location in a residential area of Braine-l’Alleud, approximately 25 kilometres south of Brussels, on Sunday night. Further observations at the site reinforced suspicions about the group’s intentions.
Ongoing Investigation
Belgian and French authorities are continuing their inquiries into the suspected criminal plot, with both nations’ judicial bodies working closely to uncover the full extent of the planned crimes.
While further details remain undisclosed, officials have assured the public that necessary measures are being taken to address the security threat posed by the suspects. The arrests highlight the effectiveness of international police cooperation in preventing potential acts of violent crime.
The case remains under judicial review, with further updates expected as investigations progress.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
