French police have thwarted a suspected bomb attack outside a Bank of America building in Paris, and detained a person, authorities have said.
The incident happened early on Saturday when officers spotted two suspects carrying a shopping bag near the premises in the 8th arrondissement of the capital, according to RTL radio, citing police sources.
One of the suspects, who was holding a lighter, was attempting to ignite a device, RTL said.
The second suspect managed to escape.
The Paris police prefecture declined to comment.
An investigation into alleged terrorism-related offences has been opened by the national anti-terrorism prosecutor’s office, or PNAT.
The suspected offences include attempted damage by fire or by a dangerous means, the manufacture of an incendiary or explosive device, the possession and transport of such devices with the intent to prepare dangerous damage, and involvement in a terrorist criminal association.
A person was placed in police custody.
France’s interior minister Laurent Nunez praised officers, saying on social media: “Well done to the rapid intervention of a Paris police prefecture unit, which made it possible to thwart a violent act of a terrorist nature overnight in Paris.
“Vigilance remains at a very high level.
“I commend all security and intelligence forces, fully mobilised under my authority in the current international context.”
Since the Iran war started, French authorities have strengthened the protection of Iranian opposition figures and increased security around sites that may be a target, including those linked to US interests and to the Jewish community, Mr Nunez previously said.
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