A Palestinian-born alleged Hamas operative who resided in Crete was arrested by the Greek Anti-Terrorist Service (DAEEB) and National Intelligence Service on Saturday night, the Hellenic Police said in a Sunday statement.
The 37-year-old was charged with joining Hamas, as well as traveling and receiving training for terrorist purposes.
The alleged Hamas operative had ordered explosives online, and laboratory equipment was found in homes raided in Crete and Athens. The suspect reportedly had training in the manufacture of synthetic explosives.
The investigation is ongoing, with the individual allegedly linked to others suspected of terrorism offenses in other European countries.
Hamas operatives arrested across Europe
In recent months, several alleged Hamas operatives have been arrested for their involvement with a network seeking to conduct attacks on Jewish and Israeli sites across Europe.
Eight operatives have already been arrested in connection with the network, the latest of whom was a Danish resident on May 27. Closer to Greece, Lebanese national Kamel M. was arrested by border officials in Larnaca airport, Cyprus, in March. The suspected Hamas member had allegedly sent 300 ammunition cartridges to other operatives in mainland Europe.