BERLIN, March 10 (Reuters) - Cypriot authorities have detained a suspected member of Palestinian militant group Hamas wanted in Germany for procuring weapons and ammunition for attacks on Israeli or
Cyprus Detains Suspected Hamas Member Wanted in Germany for Weapons Procurement
Suspect's Detention and Extradition Process
Background of the Arrest
BERLIN, March 10 (Reuters) - Cypriot authorities have detained a suspected member of Palestinian militant group Hamas wanted in Germany for procuring weapons and ammunition for attacks on Israeli or Jewish facilities, German federal prosecutors said on Tuesday.
Identity and Circumstances of Detention
The Lebanese-born suspect, identified only as Kamel M. in line with German privacy rules, was detained at Cyprus' Larnaca airport on March 6, arriving from Lebanon, they added in a statement.
Details of the Alleged Offenses
Weapons Procurement and Intended Targets
The suspect is wanted in relation to the transport of 300 rounds of live ammunition, according to prosecutors. It wasn't clear from the statement where the rounds had come from, or where they were thought to be heading.
Purpose of the Operation
"The operation served as preparation for deadly Hamas attacks on Israeli or Jewish institutions in Germany and Europe," they said.
Additional Investigative Actions
Police also searched the suspect's apartment in Berlin.
Legal Proceedings and Broader Context
Extradition and Judicial Process
Once Kamel M. is extradited to Germany, a judge will decide on pre-trial detention, the statement said.
Rising Attacks and Regional Tensions
Attacks against Jews and Jewish targets have risen worldwide since Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza, triggered by the militant group's 2023 attacks on Israel.
(Reporting by Thomas Seythal; Editing by Sharon Singleton)
