Belgium Raids Uncover Suspected Terrorist Activities Ahead of Olympic Games

Authorities in Belgium conducted 14 raids, detaining seven individuals suspected of terrorist activities, just before the Olympic Games' commencement in France. The suspects are accused of participating in terrorist groups and planning attacks. The raids are part of a broader security operation involving multiple nations to ensure the safety of the Games.

Authorities in Belgium carried out 14 raids across the country on Thursday and detained seven people on suspicion of terrorist activities. The operations came a day before the opening of the Olympic Games in France. According to a press release from the Federal prosecutor's office, the suspects are believed to be involved in terrorist groups, financing terrorism, and planning attacks.

Arnaud d'Oultremont, spokesperson for the investigation, told The Associated Press that the suspects' objectives remain unclear. In Paris, a large-scale security operation is underway to protect the opening ceremony, which draws thousands of athletes and millions of spectators. Security efforts involve police from 44 countries, including Belgium.

The Belgian raids occurred in cities such as Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, and Liège. An investigating judge will decide on the formal arrest of those detained. Meanwhile, in northern Germany, two Russian nationals were arrested for allegedly supporting a foreign terror organization and violating export laws related to the Islamic State group. These arrests appear unconnected to the Belgian operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)