Authorities in Frankfurt have confirmed that a 26-year-old Syrian man is in custody following a deadly knife attack in Solingen. The attack, which took place during a festival celebrating the city’s history, left three people dead and eight others injured. The suspect, identified as Issa Al H., has admitted to the crime and is believed to have ties to the ISIS terrorist group.
The tragic incident occurred on Friday evening at a market square where festival-goers were enjoying live music. Mourners have since created a memorial near the scene to honor the victims.
In a joint statement, Duesseldorf police and prosecutors revealed that the suspect turned himself in on Saturday. German federal prosecutors have stated that the suspect, due to his extremist beliefs, targeted individuals he considered non-believers, stabbing them in the neck and upper body.
Prominent politician Friedrich Merz has called for a halt to admitting refugees from Syria and Afghanistan in light of the attack. The suspect, who resided in a refugee home in Solingen, was described by ISIS as one of their soldiers in a statement on Telegram.
Authorities have confirmed that the attack is being treated as an act of terror, with North Rhine-Westphalia’s interior minister disclosing that the suspect’s residence was searched following the incident. ISIS has also released video clips purportedly showing the attacker pledging allegiance to their leader and speaking before the attack.
According to the German Federal Criminal Police Office, the country has faced numerous Islamist-motivated attacks over the years. The BKA has warned that Germany remains a target for terrorist organizations, emphasizing the ongoing risk of jihadist violence.
