French intelligence services have prevented another terrorist attack
The U.S. state Department issued a warning urging U.S. citizens to exercise caution during the festive of festivals, events and outdoor markets in Europe in the coming weeks. The warning was issued after French intelligence services have prevented another terrorist attack.
French authorities arrested 7 people after anti-terrorism raids in Strasbourg and Marseilles on Sunday, said interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve. Was foiled "another terrorist attack, which was planned for a long time in our land," said Cazeneuve during a press conference in Paris.
The attack was planned in Strasbourg during the opening of the Christmas events that are usually visited by almost 2 million people. French media reported that the Christmas event was a potential target of terrorists.
According to investigators, they believe that the people behind the terrorist attack that was prevented was directed operational group of terrorist from Syria related to ISIL, said a source close to the investigation. The source said authorities are investigating who made the trip to Syria of the individuals arrested over the weekend in Marseille and Strasbourg.
They suspect that some of those under arrest had traveled to Syria through Cyprus, but still not fully established whether this is so. A second source, a senior French official in the fight against terrorism, said that in recent days the threat from persons suspected of having links with ISIS in Syria was thwarted.
The suspects, who were arrested in Marseille and Strasbourg from 29 to 37 years. French, Moroccan and Afghan nationality. Moroccan suspect was known to investigators after they received information about him from "neighbouring countries".
"Never has the terrorist threat been so high in our country. Anti-terrorist services have been fully mobilized," said the Minister of internal Affairs of France. The case was referred to the Paris Prosecutor.
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