The head of Germany’s Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution, Hans-Georg Maassen, is convinced that jihadi terror groups want to launch attacks against high-profile Western targets, such as the Euros.
Maassen went on to say that there was “quite a lot of background noise” and “an elevated number of indications” that ISIS, al Qaeda or its Syrian affiliate group Nursa Front could strike imminently.
But Maassen stopped short of saying there was any hard evidence of a specific attack.
Terrorists killed 130 people in Paris attacks last year
They will try to hit as soon as possible, and achieve the greatest possible impact
He said: “Clearly, France is the most threatened and we know that Islamic State is planning new attacks.
“Due to suffering setbacks on the battlefield [in Iraq and Syria] ISIS will want to create a diversion and avenge coalition air strikes.
ISIS could launch bombing campaign at Euro 2016, experts warn
Around 2.5 million people are expected to flock to France to attend the 51 matches involving 24 teams at Euro 2016, which takes place from June 10 to July 10.
But it is not just fans watching the matches in stadiums who could be at risk.
