A Luxembourg court has shared new details about a planned terrorist attack on the Eurovision Song Contest 2020, targeting the event with gas and explosives.
Neo-nazi planned gas and bomb attack targeting Eurovision 2020
On 9 July, during a court session in Luxembourg, prosecutors shared evidence that a 23-year-old man from Strassen, along with a Dutch accomplice, had prepared plans to launch a violent attack during Eurovision 2020. The two had written a shared Google document outlining methods including the use of cyanide, ricin, and chlorine gas, with the aim of causing mass panic and casualties. The methods described suggest the attack was intended to take place inside the venue, using ventilation systems or restricted access points to maximise impact.
Police later seized materials for producing chlorine and rocket prototypes. According to the plan, the attackers also considered infiltrating security and blocking emergency exits.
The case was presented as part of an ongoing trial into the defendant’s far-right activities and extremist connections.
Other plots and radicalisation
Prosecutors briefly referred to other intended attacks by the same individuals in Sweden and the Netherlands, including attempts to target infrastructure and media outlets. These actions were linked to the defendant’s involvement in neo-Nazi and eco-fascist networks, as well as his participation in online propaganda.
According to RTL Today, a police investigator stated:
He demonstrated committed neo-Nazi ideology and showed initiative in both planning and recruitment.
Despite claims of deradicalisation, investigators expressed concern that the defendant remains a “deeply radicalised individual”.
In recent years, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has introduced new protocols to support safety and well-being across the contest, underlining the need for continued vigilance.
Trial continues in Luxembourg
The defendant, who is currently studying chemistry in Sweden, has been free since 2021. The court will continue examining the evidence this week, with the defendant expected to testify next.
Eurovision 2020, originally scheduled to take place in Rotterdam, was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The planned attack never took place.
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News source: RTL Today
Photo Credit: Rotterdam Ahoy (ahoy.nl)
Giwrgos Oiko