Lithuanian Judiciary Uncovers Russian Plot Involving Arson Attacks Across Europe

In a striking development, the judiciary of Lithuania has revealed a complex network of individuals alleged to be behind a series of planned arson attacks in various European countries. The investigation, led by the Prosecutor General's Office in Vilnius, has uncovered that these suspects have purportedly distributed packages containing homemade explosives across the EU and Great Britain, all supposedly coordinated by the Russian intelligence service. According to authorities, these highly flammable incendiary devices, equipped with timers, were cunningly concealed within everyday items such as massage cushions and cosmetic tubes. A Lithuanian citizen is believed to have dispatched these packages on July 19, 2024. Notably, two of these shipments were reported to have been sent from Vilnius to Great Britain using DHL cargo planes, while another two were dispatched via DPD trucks to Poland. Tragically, the situation escalated when one of the packages caught fire at the DHL logistics center in Leipzig, Germany, where it was scheduled for reloading. Just days later, on July 21, one of the DPD trucks traveling through Poland was struck by a detonation from another package, followed by a third explosion on July 22 at a DHL warehouse in Birmingham, England. Remarkably, a fourth parcel failed to detonate due to a technical malfunction, as confirmed by the official statement. The authorities have indicated that the ringleaders of this operation are suspected to be Russian nationals with connections to the military intelligence service of Russia. While law enforcement has not disclosed the exact number of arrests made in Lithuania or other nations, investigations have identified 15 individuals believed to be involved in orchestrating and executing these alleged attacks. In a bid to apprehend those responsible, an international arrest warrant has been issued for three individuals linked to the operation. As the investigation unfolds, more than 30 searches have been conducted across Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, and Estonia, leading to the discovery of additional incendiary devices. The authorities continue to suspect that these seized explosives were intended for further attacks throughout the region. This unraveling plot serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threats posed by international espionage and terrorism, raising concerns about safety and security across Europe. The collaboration among EU member states in addressing this menace will be crucial as the investigation progresses. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2