Authorities in western Germany are searching for the perpetrator responsible for a knife attack in Solingen that left three people dead and eight others injured. ISIL (ISIS) has claimed responsibility for the attack, stating that the perpetrator targeted Christians in retaliation for Muslims in Palestine. A 15-year-old boy was arrested in connection with the attack after witnesses reported a conversation they overheard which corresponded to the events that followed. Police have also raided a home for asylum seekers in the city center.
Germany’s Minister of the Interior and Community visited Solingen to offer support, stating that the government would do everything possible to prevent such attacks from dividing society. Though the attack has been described as an act of terror, it has not been officially classified as a terror attack. The group ISIL has a history of claiming responsibility for attacks it may not have been involved in, and authorities urge people to remain vigilant until the perpetrator is found.
The attack occurred during a festival to mark Solingen’s 650th anniversary, prompting authorities to cancel the remaining festivities. The community is in shock and grief, with churches opening their doors to offer support and a space for prayer. An online portal has been established for witnesses to provide footage and information relevant to the attack. The police investigation is ongoing as authorities work to piece together the events leading up to the tragic attack in Solingen.
Source
Photo credit www.aljazeera.com