Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Spanish authorities detained a male suspect on January 25, 2025, because he allegedly provided weapons used during the October 16, 2023, terrorist assault on Swedish followers in Brussels. Border Control officials detained the suspect as he tried to leave Spain from Malaga Airport.
Spanish police arrested a supply chain suspect accused of providing weapons used during the October 16, 2023, Brussels terrorist assault against Swedish supporters on January 25, 2025. An arrest warrant led authorities to take the suspect to Malaga Airport when he attempted to depart Spain. Belgian authorities released an international arrest warrant targeting the suspect after it was confirmed that he took part in the attack that killed two Swedes while also causing major injuries to the third victim. Life imprisonment is applicable in case of charges of terrorism alongside murder as well as serious bodily harm.
The assailant attacked Swedish supporters who came to watch the national football match between Belgium and Sweden. The assailant was killed by Belgian police during their search at a local café. The attacker supported the Islamic State through social media activity and attacked Swedes because of the Quran burnings happening in Sweden. Criminal investigators believe the imprisoned suspect held relationships with the gunman while actively participating in organised criminal conduct.
What is the background on terrorism and security measures in Spain?
Spanish authorities have arrested more than 200 suspects since they increased their national security alert level in 2015. Spanish counter-terrorism protocols have intensified through international cooperation with Europol in recent times. Current enforcement attempts to dismantle criminal networks damaging public security within Europe.
