French police have arrested two more individuals in connection with an attempted bombing at the Bank of America headquarters in Paris, authorities confirmed on Sunday. This arrest follows the detention of a minor on Saturday and sheds light on an attempted attack that could have had serious consequences for the bank and surrounding areas.
Details of the Foiled Attack
The incident unfolded early on Saturday, around 3:30 am (0130 GMT), in front of the Bank of America building located in Paris’ upscale 8th arrondissement, not far from the iconic Champs-Élysées. French police prevented what appeared to be a bomb attack when they arrested a man who was about to ignite a homemade explosive device.
According to sources close to the case, the suspect had placed a device consisting of five liters of liquid, believed to be fuel, along with an ignition system.
Police Response and Investigation
The French authorities acted swiftly, with the counter-terrorism prosecutor’s office taking over the investigation. They confirmed that the suspect was arrested in the act of attempting to set off the device. The investigation is focused on “attempted damage by fire or other dangerous means in connection with a terrorist undertaking” and “terrorist criminal conspiracy.”
Both the Paris judicial police and the General Directorate for Internal Security (DGSI), France’s domestic intelligence service, are involved in the investigation.
Snapchat Recruitment and Plot Details
A police source revealed that the suspect had been recruited through the Snapchat app to carry out the bombing in exchange for 600 euros ($692). Authorities apprehended him just as he was about to ignite the device with a lighter. Another accomplice was seen stepping back, likely to record the incident with a mobile phone as the attack was taking place.
Bank of America’s Response
A spokesperson for Bank of America, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, confirmed that the company was aware of the situation and was in active communication with French authorities.
Heightened Security Amid International Tensions
France’s Interior Minister Laurent Nunez praised the swift actions of the police, acknowledging the current international security climate. He emphasized the importance of the quick response given the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Since the outbreak of the war in the region, European countries have been on heightened alert for potential attacks targeting Iranian dissidents, Jewish institutions, and US-Israeli assets.
The investigation continues as French authorities work to piece together the motives behind the plot and the individuals involved.
