BAVARIA, GERMANY

Five Detained in Southern Germany Over Alleged Christmas Market Terror Plot

Updated: January 2, 2026

German security forces have successfully thwarted a potential terror plot targeting a festive holiday gathering. Authorities confirmed the arrest of five men suspected of planning a vehicle-ramming attack at a Christmas market in the state of Bavaria.

Details of the Investigation

The arrests took place on Friday following an intensive investigation into a suspected "Islamist-motivated" conspiracy. The group consists of five individuals of various nationalities:

• One Egyptian national (56): Alleged to be the primary instigator and coordinator.
• Three Moroccan nationals (aged 22, 28, and 30): Suspected of agreeing to execute the physical attack.
• One Syrian national (37): Accused of providing ideological support and encouragement for the crime.

According to prosecutors, the 56-year-old Egyptian man—reportedly an imam at a local mosque—is accused of calling for a vehicle attack designed to inflict maximum casualties.

Location and Security Response

While officials have not disclosed the specific date or the exact market targeted, evidence suggests the plot was centered on the Dingolfing-Landau district, located northeast of Munich.

Bavaria’s Interior Minister, Joachim Herrmann, praised the "excellent cooperation" between international and local security services. He emphasized that proactive surveillance was key to preventing a tragedy during the holiday season.

Context: Heightened Security in Germany

Germany remains on high alert following a series of tragic incidents at its world-famous Christmas markets:

• Magdeburg (2024): A devastating attack last December resulted in six fatalities.
• Berlin (2016): A truck-ramming at the Breitscheidplatz market killed 12 people, leading to a permanent shift in how outdoor public events are secured.

Since these events, German authorities have implemented rigorous safety measures, including the installation of heavy vehicle barriers, increased police presence, and enhanced surveillance of extremist networks.

Current Legal Status

The five suspects appeared before a magistrate on Saturday and are currently being held in custody as the investigation continues. They face charges including conspiracy to commit murder and incitement of a terrorist offense.