Cologne Cathedral Terror Plot Foiled: Three Arrested Ahead of New Year’s Eve
German cops have busted three suspects in a suspected New Year’s Eve terror plot aimed at Cologne’s iconic cathedral. The plan allegedly involved using a car as a weapon, triggering a major security clampdown in the city centre.
Links to Tajik IS-K Militants
Cologne Police Chief Johannes Hermann revealed the trio are tied to a Tajik suspect nabbed on Christmas Eve. This Tajik arrest coincided with the capture of three more suspects in Vienna. All are believed to be connected to Islamic State-Khorasan (IS-K), a dangerous IS offshoot based in Afghanistan.
“Islamist people and groups are more active than ever,” warned Herbert Reul, the North Rhine-Westphalia Interior Minister, underlining the heightened threat level around Cologne.
Massive Security Blitz at Cologne Cathedral
Following the arrests, authorities found no explosives after sniffer dogs swept the cathedral’s underground car park. Yet, security remains tighter than ever. Around 1,000 police officers are now on duty protecting the cathedral and the city centre ahead of NYE celebrations.
“People can celebrate calmly in Cologne,” reassured Minister Reul. “We’re confident the festivities can go on safely.”
Germany on High Alert After Rising Islamist Threats
- Germany’s security services have issued repeated warnings amid tensions following the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- The deadliest Islamist attack here was in 2016 when an IS supporter ploughed a truck into a Berlin Christmas market, killing 12.
- This latest plot highlights continuing risks and the need for vigilance as Germany heads into the New Year.
