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Abdeslam USB Inquiry Upgraded to Terrorism Association, Three Detained

A rare extension of custody underscores the probe's heightened urgency.

Overview

  • France’s anti-terror prosecutor said the January probe into a USB linked to Salah Abdeslam now targets suspected terrorist association in preparation for a crime against persons.
  • Three people are in police custody, with one identified by media as Abdeslam’s companion, and her detention exceptionally extended beyond 96 hours under a seldom-used legal provision.
  • Abdeslam was held for questioning twice this week on suspicion of receiving illicit objects in detention, and both gardes à vue were lifted the same day.
  • The investigation has been assigned to the anti-terror police unit SDAT alongside the domestic intelligence agency DGSI.
  • Prison-computer logs indicate USB connections to Abdeslam’s authorized device, but the physical drive—reported to contain jihadist propaganda—has not been found.