Attack near Bank of America Paris office stopped, probe opened

French authorities say they have prevented what they describe as a “violent terrorist attack” after police detained a suspect outside Bank of America’s Paris headquarters overnight.

The incident unfolded early Saturday in the city’s 8th arrondissement. According to Interior Minister Laurent Nunez, officers intervened quickly, stopping an attempt to ignite an explosive device near the building.

Local media, citing police sources, report the suspect was arrested around 3:25am as he tried to light a container holding an unidentified liquid along with an explosive charge of roughly 650 grams of powder. The device has since been sent for forensic analysis.

A second individual who was present at the scene managed to flee and remains at large.

France’s National Terrorism Prosecution Office has opened an investigation. The suspected offences include attempted destruction using fire or other dangerous means in connection with what authorities are treating as a terrorist plot. Additional charges relate to the possession and transport of an explosive or incendiary device, as well as participation in a terrorist criminal association, suggesting possible links to a wider network.

“Vigilance remains at a very high level,” Nunez said on social media, pointing to the broader international context. He also noted that security and intelligence services are fully mobilised.

Earlier in the week, French authorities had already stepped up protection measures around potential targets. These included individuals linked to the Iranian opposition, as well as sites associated with US interests and the Jewish community.

Bank of America said it was aware of the incident and is in contact with authorities.