Semir M. had received a three-year sentence last year as he had both been in contact with the terrorist organization Islamic State and translated propaganda articles. He may also have intended to go to Syria.
The court had then considered, “Taking account of his young age, there is a still hope that he will do something positive with his life.” However since his early release, the young man has not changed his behaviour. As indicated above, the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office stated that he was planning an attack in the Netherlands, and probably an attack in Belgium. However, his plans were not significantly advanced.
A spokesman for the Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the arrest of the young man fell within a terrorist context but did not wish to comment further.