Authorities are intensifying their search for the perpetrator of a knife attack that took place in Solingen, Germany, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and leaving eight others wounded. The extremist group ISIL (ISIS) has claimed responsibility for the attack, as reported by their Amaq news site. The incident occurred on Friday evening during the celebrations marking Solingen’s 650th anniversary, where thousands had gathered at a central square.
The victims of the attack include one woman and two men. Markus Caspers, from the counterterrorism section of the public prosecutor’s office, stated during a news conference that the authorities have yet to identify a motive. However, given the overall circumstances, the possibility of terrorism cannot be ruled out, Caspers added, without providing further details.
In the early hours of Saturday, a 15-year-old boy was arrested after two female witnesses contacted the police. They reported overhearing a conversation between the boy and an unknown person discussing intentions that aligned with the subsequent attack. As part of the investigation, police, including special forces, conducted a raid on a home for asylum seekers located in Solingen’s city center.
Thorsten Fleiss, the chief of operations on the night of the attack, described the process of gathering evidence and witness testimonies as a “big challenge” in order to establish a comprehensive understanding of the events. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant until the perpetrator is apprehended.
Nancy Faeser, Germany’s Minister of the Interior and Community, visited Solingen on Saturday evening, expressing the government’s commitment to support the city and its residents. Faeser emphasized that the attack should not divide society. Hendrik Wust, Minister-President of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, and State Minister for Internal Affairs Herbert Reul also joined Faeser in condemning the attack as an act of terror against the security and freedom of the country.
While ISIL has claimed responsibility for the attack, Faeser, the country’s top security official, has not officially classified it as a terror attack. ISIL, at its peak, controlled significant territories in Iraq and Syria and carried out numerous deadly attacks worldwide. However, the group suffered territorial losses in 2017, leading to its collapse.
In response to the attack, the police have cordoned off the square where it occurred, and members of the public have placed candles and flowers outside the barriers. An online portal has been established for witnesses to upload relevant footage and information. Local churches in Solingen have opened their doors to provide a space for prayer and emergency pastoral care.
Source : CrimeDoor