Belgian authorities have arrested three individuals in Antwerp suspected of plotting a jihadist-inspired attack using drone-mounted explosives. The suspects were detained as part of an investigation into “attempted terrorist murder and participation in the activities of a terrorist group,” according to federal prosecutors. Ann Fransen, a federal prosecutor, confirmed the arrests but did not disclose details about the intended targets. However, Belgian newspaper Nieuwsblad reported that Prime Minister Bart De Wever was among those potentially targeted.
During searches of one suspect’s residence, investigators found an improvised explosive device. Another location yielded a 3D printer believed to have been used to manufacture components for the attack. Two suspects are currently in custody for questioning, while the third has been released. The plan allegedly involved drones as tools for carrying out attacks, raising concerns about the growing threat of drone-enabled terrorism in Western cities.
Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken highlighted the risks, stating on X: “Drones are a big problem. Islamism is too, but we’ve known that for a while.” The incident underscores broader fears about extremist groups exploiting technology for violent purposes. Globally, drones have been increasingly used in terror plots, including by al-Qaeda-linked militants in Africa and drug cartels in Mexico, which have deployed bomb-dropping drones for surveillance and combat.
