France's first 'Incel' terror plot: Teen charged with planning attacks on women

Paris, France: An 18-year-old French man, identified as Timothy G., has been charged in what officials are calling the country's first terror plot directly linked to the misogynistic 'incel' movement.

The suspect was arrested last Friday by the DGSI security service near a public high school in Saint-Etienne. Sources close to the investigation revealed he was carrying two knives and identified himself as a member of the incel, or involuntary celibate, subculture. This internet subculture is known for its deep misogyny, with adherents often blaming women and feminism for their romantic failings and typically targeting women they perceive as attractive or sexually active.

The National Anti-Terrorism Prosecutor's Office (PNAT) confirmed an investigation was opened on Tuesday against the suspect, who now faces charges of terrorist conspiracy with a view to preparing one or more crimes against persons and imprisoned, the PNAT said.

According to an AFP journalist, Timothy G. appeared shy, with an almost hairless face and a slender build. His lawyer, Maria Snitsar, described him as "a teenager who is suffering, not a fighter preparing for action."

Sources indicate the teenager, who aspired to be an engineer, was a follower of misogynistic videos on social media, particularly TikTok. This case marks the first time the PNAT has exclusively investigated an individual identifying solely with the "incel" subculture, though the concept had surfaced marginally in two previous anti-terrorism cases.