Fifth held after Pardubice arms factory attack

A fifth person has been arrested in connection with an arson attack on a weapons factory in Pardubice, Czech Republic. The Prague prosecutor’s office confirmed that another individual was detained on Sunday, but provided no further details.

Police had previously reported four suspects in connection with the 20 March fire, which was claimed by a pro-Palestinian group.

Among those detained are an Egyptian national and a Czech woman, both charged with terrorism. Another suspect, a US citizen, was detained in Slovakia. Police are continuing their search for additional individuals. The accused, along with other suspects, deny any involvement in the attack.

The Egyptian’s lawyer said his client had an alibi at the time of the incident, while custody documents confirm that both main suspects deny guilt, according to media reports. A fourth detainee has also denied any illegal activity.

The group claiming responsibility for the attack said the targeted company was developing weapons for Israel. However, LPP Holding stated that planned co-operation with the Israeli company Elbit Systems never materialised. The company also manufactures drones, which it exports to Ukraine.

(reuters, max)