4 months Ago
The case has shocked many in the Netherlands, as the planned attack was unknown to both the festival's organisers and the Dutch authorities.
Plot Discovered in Luxembourg
Alexander H, who was 17 at the time, was arrested at his home in Strassen, a small town in Luxembourg. During the investigation, police uncovered a laptop containing a disturbing document titled "Fun time for Eurovision 2020 – For a better and less over-accepting future."
The file outlined plans for a chemical attack at the Eurovision venue, the Ahoy events centre in Rotterdam. Although the 2020 event was eventually cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the threat was treated with full seriousness.
Authorities also discovered that H had chemicals and materials used for making explosives. His plan included dispersing cyanide or ricin through the venue's ventilation system and attempting to sabotage the Dutch electricity grid. Investigators linked the document to H and an unidentified Dutch accomplice.
Neo-Nazi Connections and Hate-Fueled Motives
Further investigations revealed that H was involved with "The Base," a neo-Nazi paramilitary group considered a terrorist organisation within the EU.
He reportedly held extreme views, expressing hatred toward women, people of colour, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those of different religions. He described himself as a "good Aryan," according to detectives.
The national intelligence service in Luxembourg prevented the attack before it could be carried out. Despite the severity of the plot, Dutch officials and Eurovision organisers claimed to have no prior knowledge of the case.
Alexander H has been convicted of planning a terrorist attack and is scheduled to be sentenced in November.
