Agios Nikolaos, Greece. Greek intelligence and anti-terrorist officers arrested a 37-year-old man of Palestinian origin in Agios Nikolaos, Crete, on Saturday afternoon following an investigation into alleged terrorist activity and possible links to individuals recently investigated by Cypriot authorities. Investigators said the suspect was planning an attack on Israeli targets and was potentially considering the use of explosives against a cruise ship.
Arrest and allegations
The suspect, originally from the Gaza Strip, is accused of being a member of Hamas, as well as undertaking training and travel to support terrorist acts.
The detained man resides legally in Greece. He lives alone in the Patisia area of Athens and works at a hotel in Agios Nikolaos, Crete.
Investigation and intelligence cooperation
Authorities said they traced and arrested him based on intelligence from Cyprus, where arrests were recently made in connection with Hamas activity and bomb attacks in Jerusalem. The operation was coordinated through intelligence sharing between EYP and the Anti-Terrorist Service.
According to the information gathered, the 37-year-old admitted having contact with other individuals and taking part in actions aimed at creating the conditions and mechanisms needed to carry out a terrorist attack against Israeli targets in a European country.
Status of the alleged plot
Authorities said the plot was still in the preparatory phase, as the suspect did not yet have the means required to move to the next stage. While investigators believe the intended target may have been a cruise ship, they said the plan had not advanced beyond the collection of materials.
The suspect had reportedly already ordered some of the components intended for use, but he was arrested before he could use them.
Searches and seized items
During the operation, police raided properties in Crete and Athens, seizing mobile phones, a laptop, data storage devices, bank cards and laboratory equipment.
The confiscated items will be examined at specialized police laboratories. The 37-year-old, who was alone at the time of his arrest, is to be brought before a public prosecutor.
Ongoing inquiry
Investigations are continuing to determine the full extent of his activities and to identify any domestic or international accomplices and connections.
