PARIS — French counterterrorism agents have arrested two 16-year-old boys suspected of plotting a jihadist attack against the Jewish community, a plan authorities say was heavily influenced by Islamic State propaganda. The arrests, first reported by Le Parisien, were carried out on November 26 during a DGSI operation spanning the Paris region and the Bas-Rhin department.
Both teenagers were taken into custody for the maximum 96 hours allowed under anti-terrorism law before being brought before an investigating judge and placed in pre-trial detention. According to the national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office (PNAT), they are formally charged with participating in a terrorist conspiracy with the intent to commit violent acts.
Investigators believe the pair had begun identifying potential Jewish targets and discussing methods of attack. A source close to the case told Le Parisien that the plot appeared to be directly inspired by ISIS ideology and online calls for violence.
The first suspect — a Chechen minor who arrived in France four years ago — allegedly posted a message in a jihadist-leaning WhatsApp group announcing an attack “within five days,” accompanied by a photo of himself holding a knife. Investigators describe him as deeply isolated, having left school and spending extensive time consuming extremist content online.
The second teen, a French national from a Muslim family, was reportedly drawn into the same online networks. A passionate gamer, he is believed to have been targeted by extremist circles that deliberately recruit vulnerable youth through social media and gaming platforms.
French authorities warn the case reflects a broader trend: 20 minors have been charged with terrorism-related offenses since the start of the year, many radicalized entirely online before forming any tangible connection to an organized terror cell.
The investigation remains active as the DGSI works to determine whether the suspects had begun concrete preparations for an attack or had links to individuals abroad. Officials say the swift arrests likely prevented a violent assault.
As reported by VINnews