Germany: ISIS claims responsibility for Solingen attack, perpetrator still on the run

Hibapress

German security services are actively searching for the perpetrator of the knife attack that left three dead and eight injured on Friday evening in Solingen, during celebrations for the city’s 650th anniversary.

Nearly 24 hours after the attack, the main suspect is still at large, and the North Rhine-Westphalia police have not ruled out a terrorist motive. This hypothesis seems all the more plausible since, on Saturday evening, the Islamic State group (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack.

On Saturday afternoon, a press conference was held at the police headquarters in Wuppertal. Authorities, including Solingen Mayor Tim Kurzbach, gave an update on the progress of the investigations.

According to reports, a 15-year-old boy was arrested for “failure to report planned crimes”, although he is not considered the main suspect.

A weapon potentially used in the attack was found in a trash can in the city center, while investigations and searches continue across the country.

Regarding the identity of the attacker, the police warn against speculation, particularly on social networks, stressing that no precise information is available at this stage.

The city is in mourning. Gestures of solidarity have been expressed beyond the borders of North Rhine-Westphalia. Neighbouring cities have cancelled their festivities, while the German Football League has recommended that Bundesliga clubs wear black armbands at weekend matches.

In a statement published on the website of the Federal Presidency, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said: “The terrible act in Solingen upsets me, it upsets our country. Let us remain united against hatred and violence.”

Chancellor Olaf Scholz said: “We must not accept such horrors in our society, and we must never resign ourselves to them. We must now do everything possible to ensure that the law is applied and that the guilty are severely punished.”