France tries far-right cell accused of plotting attacks on Muslims

France tries far-right cell accused of plotting attacks on Muslims
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A major trial has begun in Paris involving 16 suspects linked to a far-right extremist group known as “Action des Forces Opérationnelles” (AFO). The group is accused of planning large-scale terrorist attacks targeting Muslims in France between 2017 and 2018.

Prosecutors allege the suspects, from various professional backgrounds—including engineers, healthcare workers, former diplomats, and retired police officers—shared a radical ideology portraying Muslims as a threat to French identity.

Authorities say the group planned to assassinate over 200 imams, bomb a mosque in northern Paris, and poison halal food with cyanide and rat poison.
Police raids uncovered weapons, ammunition, and bomb-making materials, reinforcing fears of imminent attacks.

The group’s alleged leader, a former police officer nicknamed “Richelieu,” and his partner are accused of inciting hatred online. Although the charges are severe, all suspects were released pending the trial, which runs until June 27 amid growing public concern over rising far-right extremism in France.