Prosecutors in Munich have revealed that the Afghan man accused of ramming his car into a crowd may have been motivated by religious extremism. With 36 individuals injured, including a critically hurt child, the incident raises alarms as it follows previous immigrant-related attacks.**
Munich Attack Investigated for Possible Islamist Motivation**
Munich Attack Investigated for Possible Islamist Motivation**
Afghan suspect admits to driving into crowd, injuring 36, amid rising concerns over immigration-related violence**
An Afghan man has been apprehended in Munich following a disturbing car attack that left 36 individuals injured, including a two-year-old girl who is currently in intensive care. Prosecutors are investigating the incident, which they believe may have been driven by religious extremism. Gabriele Tilmann, the Munich public prosecutor, reported that the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Farhad N, shouted "Allahu Akbar" ("God is greatest") upon his arrest.
The attack occurred on Thursday in close proximity to Munich's central station, coinciding with a trade union protest, escalating tensions just days before federal elections in Germany. This incident is being scrutinized against the backdrop of past attacks involving immigrants, including some linked to Afghanistan.
In a somber visit to the site of the attack, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his shock at the brutality of the incident. Munich's police chief revealed that Farhad N had confessed to purposefully driving his Mini Cooper into the crowd, an action that has led to serious injury for eight individuals in addition to the others affected.
While initial reports suggested a concerning history linked to shoplifting, further clarification from Bavaria's Interior Minister disclosed that Farhad N had worked as a store detective and had previously testified in related court cases. Importantly, he had entered Germany in 2016 and, despite a rejected asylum application, was living legally with a valid work permit.
As Munich prepares for the Munich Security Conference, US Vice-President JD Vance offered his condolences, emphasizing that the attack adds urgency to broader discussions about security and immigration in Germany. Authorities have confirmed that Farhad N acted alone, although there is still no established connection to any jihadist organizations.
