French anti-terror prosecutors have launched an investigation into a suspected attack on the Bank of America headquarters in Paris after the overnight arrest of a man accused of trying to detonate an explosive device outside the US bank’s premises.
In an emailed statement to reporters, the national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office said the investigation involves a suspect in an attempt to destroy by fire or other dangerous means in connection with a terrorist plot, as well as the manufacture, possession and transportation of an incendiary device or explosives.
The investigation also includes a charge of participating in a terrorist criminal organization, which includes possible links to associates or a wider network. It has been handed over to the forensic unit of the Paris police and France’s domestic intelligence agency, the DGSI.
French media earlier reported the arrest of one person at the scene, citing police sources.
“Congratulations to the rapid response team from the (Paris) police authorities, whose actions prevented a serious terrorist attack in Paris last night,” French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said in a social media post.
“Vigilance remains at a higher level than ever before. I commend all the security and intelligence forces, which are fully mobilized under my authority in the current international environment.”
