Brussels Terror Suspects Searched Online For Photos, Plans Of Belgian Prime Minister’s Office Before ISIS Attacks

The suspects thought to be behind the terrorist attacks in Brussels last week may have had another target: Prime Minister Charles Michel. Citing unconfirmed reports, BBC News reported Wednesday that authorities have found computer data showing the bombers had searched online for building plans and photos of Michel's home and office.

The computer in question was discovered in a trash can in Schaerbeek near a house where the Islamic State group supporters allegedly stored components for their explosives. Authorities previously found acetone, hydrogen peroxide, screws and detonators there, according to De Tijd. They also uncovered a note from one of the suspects, Ibrahim el-Bakraoui, indicating he felt the legal system was closing in on him.

Law enforcement alerted Michel to the recent discovery. "I can only say that there are already more stringent safety measures and controls on the Rue de la Loi 16 and the Lambermont," where he holds meetings and lives, respectively, spokesman Barend Leyts told De Tijd.

Anonymous sources told De Standaard the suspects "Googled [sic] hundreds of other things," as well.

Ibrahim el-Bakraoui, his brother Khalid el-Bakraoui and Najim Laachraoui all detonated suicide bombs last Tuesday in Brussels, killing at least 32 people and injuring more than 300. After the attacks, which took place at the airport and a metro station, the Islamic State group took responsibility. Law enforcement were still seeking suspects, including a man seen on security tape wearing a white jacket, according to the New York Times. The FBI was reportedly helping with the investigation.

The Brussels Times reported Michel's official website was hacked this past weekend by internet group Down-Sec in protest of his handling of the attacks. The prime minister lowered the threat level two days after the incident. "We think that Charles Michel should no longer be prime minister; he has failed," the hackers wrote on Twitter.