(Scypre.com) – A knife attack at a crowded festival in Solingen, Germany, left three dead and eight injured, with the Islamic State (IS) militant group claiming responsibility. The attack occurred Friday night at an event celebrating the city’s 650th anniversary, which drew large crowds.
The extremist group stated on its news site that the attacker, referred to as a “soldier of the Islamic State,” targeted Christians as an act of revenge for Muslims in Palestine and elsewhere. The claim, however, has not been independently verified, as the group did not provide any evidence.
German authorities have been actively investigating the incident. A suspect was detained on Saturday, according to Herbert Reul, the internal affairs minister of North Rhein Westphalia. Reul confirmed that police had been following a strong lead throughout the day and eventually apprehended the individual in question. The suspect is currently being interrogated, with Reul noting that police have gathered significant evidence in the case.
In an earlier development, a 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of having prior knowledge of the attack but failing to report it. However, officials clarified that the boy was not the perpetrator. Witnesses had reported overhearing the teenager and an unidentified person discussing plans that aligned with the subsequent attack.
Despite the IS claim, the motive behind the attack remains unclear. Markus Caspers, senior public prosecutor from the counterterrorism section, stated that authorities have yet to establish a definitive motive. He did not dismiss the possibility of terrorism, though no additional details were provided.
The attack claimed the lives of two men, aged 67 and 56, and a 56-year-old woman. Reports indicate that the attacker deliberately targeted his victims’ throats. Security experts, such as Peter Neumann from King’s College London, warn that this incident could signal a resurgence in terrorist activities. Neumann suggests that IS may be attempting to exploit the momentum created by Hamas’ recent terror offensive in October 2023, despite having no direct connection to it.
Neumann explained that IS has been encouraging individuals to carry out attacks using simple methods, like vehicles and knives, to create a pervasive sense of fear and the impression that the group could strike at any moment. Police operations in North Rhine Westphalia have been intensified, with officers conducting widespread searches and investigations. Authorities have recovered several knives but have yet to confirm whether any were used in the attack.
As the investigation continues, local officials are urging the public to remain vigilant. Meanwhile, the community of Solingen has responded with solidarity. Churches have opened their doors for prayer and emergency support, and many residents have begun leaving flowers at the scene of the attack. An online portal has been set up for witnesses to share any footage or information that could aid the investigation.
High-profile political figures have also reacted to the tragedy. German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser visited Solingen and assured the public that the government would provide all necessary support. She emphasized that the attack must not be allowed to divide society. State Minister-President Hendrik Wüst echoed her sentiments, labeling the attack as “an act of terror against the security and freedom of this country.” However, Faeser stopped short of officially classifying it as a terror attack.
The festival, which had been intended to run through Sunday with a variety of cultural performances, was abruptly canceled following the attack. Mayor Tim Kurzbach expressed the deep sorrow felt by the community, stating, “Last night our hearts were torn apart. We in Solingen are full of horror and grief.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Frank-Walter Steinmeier both condemned the attack and vowed that justice would be served. Scholz expressed his shock and grief over the event, offering condolences to the victims’ families, while Steinmeier called the act “heinous” and extended his best wishes for the recovery of the injured.
This attack is a grim reminder that, even years after losing its territorial control, the Islamic State remains capable of inciting violence across the globe. The group, although weakened, continues to recruit and inspire attacks, maintaining its relevance through sporadic acts of terror.