The three men who were arrested last week after the discovery of explosive material in a car in Utrecht are suspected of “preparatory acts for committing ATM bombings”. One suspect has been released, the other two remain in custody longer.
This was confirmed by the Public Prosecution Service (OM) to NU.nl after reporting by RTV Utrecht. A 24-year-old man from Utrecht and a 25-year-old man without a fixed place of residence or stay will remain in custody for two weeks longer. A 22-year-old man from Utrecht has been released, but remains a suspect.
Last Tuesday evening, the car with explosives was spotted in a parking lot on the Aziëlaan in Utrecht. Two apartment buildings in the area were evacuated as a precaution. At least 130 residents were accommodated by the municipality in a nearby hotel.
The Beneluxlaan and Europaplein were also closed. Due to the police investigation, tram traffic between Utrecht and Nieuwegein was also suspended.
After the apartments were evacuated, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Service Defense (EOD) examined and secured the explosive substances. After more than five hours, residents were allowed to return home.