Lithuania charges 15 over alleged Russian-backed parcel bombs

Fifteen people have been charged with terrorism offences in Lithuania over the alleged Russian-backed detonation of parcels in Germany, Poland and the UK, prosecutors say.

The suspects are accused of using delivery companies DHL and DPD to send four packages of explosives hidden in cosmetics containers from the Lithuanian capital Vilnius.

Fires broke out in Germany, Poland and the UK in July last year, while the fourth parcel failed to ignite due to a malfunction.

Lithuanian investigators say the plot was coordinated by individuals with links to Russian military intelligence services, and have previously said they were dry runs aimed at sabotaging flights to the US and Canada.

Russia has not yet responded to the latest statement, but has denied repeated allegations by Nato countries that its secret services are engaged in sabotage operations across Europe.

Read more: BBC News