Expert warns against linking attacks

Despite official statements connecting the attacks in Paris and Copenhagen, some experts are warning against drawing a link too hastily.

Terrorism expert Jean-Charles Brisard says there were indeed “similarities” between the two attacks “but they follow the same basic trends we have been observing for several years.”

The gunmen aimed at “high-value targets” with “weapons that are increasingly less sophisticated” instead of using explosives that are “more and more tracked by security services,” says Brisard.

This type of attack “requires a lot less preparation than attacks that were carried out in the past,” which makes it harder for authorities to intervene in the preparatory phase.

Nevertheless, the security expert warns against “short-cuts” in linking the two attacks, as “we don’t know much about the Copenhagen shooter.” (AFP)