Following a tip from U.S. authorities, a 26-year-old Iranian man, identified as J.J., has been formally accused by German prosecutors of orchestrating an Islamist-motivated attack using either ricin or cyanide. Apprehended in Castrop-Rauxel, located in western Germany's Ruhr region, back in January along with his brother, J.J. now faces charges of preparing a serious act of violence and terror financing. The indictment has been submitted to the Dortmund state court.
While J.J.'s 32-year-old brother was initially suspected of involvement, the case against him has been dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Prosecutors allege that J.J., motivated by Islamic State group ideology, planned to deploy ricin or a cyanide compound to inflict maximum casualties. The plot is believed to have taken shape by the end of October.
Image: Officials in protective gear remove a box from a Castrop-Rauxel residence during the January 8, 2023 anti-terror operation.
Ricin, derived from castor oil plant seeds, is lethal even in small quantities if ingested, injected, or inhaled. While the intended target remains undisclosed, prosecutors assert that J.J. communicated with extremists through messaging platforms to obtain instructions on producing the toxins. He is also accused of procuring the necessary ingredients. The operation leading to J.J.'s arrest stemmed from intelligence provided by U.S. authorities. The Dortmund court will now determine if and when the case proceeds to trial.
