French authorities say police foiled a suspected terrorist attack outside a building used by Bank of America in central Paris early on Saturday.
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The incident occurred shortly before 03:30 local time when officers patrolling the area noticed suspicious activity near the bank’s premises.
According to officials, a man attempted to detonate an improvised explosive device placed outside the building. Police intervened before the device could be ignited.
Police stop suspected bombing attempt
Authorities said the suspect had left two bottles filled with flammable liquid that were taped together and attached to about 650 grams of explosive powder.
Investigators say the man was trying to ignite the device with a lighter when officers moved in and arrested him.
Second suspect escapes scene
Police said a second suspect was present during the incident and appeared to be filming from across the street using a mobile phone.
That individual fled the area before officers could detain him and remains at large. Authorities have launched a search operation to locate the suspect.
Officials did not immediately release details about the identities or possible motives of those involved.
Investigators are examining whether the two suspects were working together as part of a planned attack.
Officials describe incident as terrorism
Laurent Nuñez praised police for their quick response, saying officers prevented what he described as a violent attack.
In a message posted on social media, Nuñez said the attempted bombing was “of a terrorist nature” and credited the rapid intervention of police with stopping the device from being detonated.
He added that security forces remain on high alert amid heightened international tensions.
The investigation has been handed to the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's Office, which is responsible for handling terrorism cases.
Authorities said intelligence and security services are fully mobilised as the inquiry continues.
Police have not announced whether additional suspects may be involved but said further updates would follow as the investigation progresses.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 29 March 2026