Man charged over attempted attack on Leuven Pride

A 20-year-old man will face trial this autumn on suspicion of planning to carry out an attack during the 2024 Pride march in Leuven.

Police identified the man when he attempted to procure weapons via the instant messaging service Telegram. The suspect was then put in touch with an undercover officer.

An investigation revealed that the suspect, who had been radicalised for some time, and an accomplice had reportedly hoped to cause as many casualties as possible.

A number of young people were arrested during the months-long investigation, but only the main suspect and one of his former classmates are currently facing prosecution.

After several months in pre-trial detention, the young man was initially released with an electronic tag.

The suspect is due to appear in court in November alongside the other defendant.

They face charges of participating in the activities of a terrorist organisation and, if found guilty, could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.