First suspect in Šiauliai terrorism case admits guilt during questioning

A closed hearing at Šiauliai Regional Court has concluded the first interrogation of a suspect in a high-profile terrorism case, with the defendant admitting guilt, LRT reports.

The case involves six foreign nationals accused of participating in an organised terrorist group, financing terrorist activities, and attempting a failed attack in Šiauliai in September 2024. The suspects include a Spanish citizen (J.L.A.), a dual Spanish-Colombian national (A.F.R.D.), a Russian citizen (E.O.V.), a Cuban citizen (Y.L.C.), a Colombian citizen (C.A.L.D.), and a Belarusian citizen (M.B.).

According to prosecutors, the group conducted reconnaissance in Lithuania weeks before their first attempt to set fire to equipment belonging to TVC Solutions, a Šiauliai-based company producing mobile radio spectrum analysis stations for Ukraine’s armed forces. The targeted equipment was valued at up to €1.5 million.

Two arson attempts were made—on September 17 and September 22, 2024—both unsuccessful. During Thursday’s hearing, the first defendant provided testimony on the circumstances of the plot. The court also began questioning a witness, with further hearings scheduled for next week.

All six suspects remain in custody, with pretrial detention extended by three months for each.