German authorities confirmed on Friday that the suspect in Thursday’s car ramming incident in Munich had an “Islamist motive.” However, prosecutors stated that there was no evidence linking the attack to terrorist organizations such as the so-called “Islamic State.”
Suspect Admits to Intentional Act
The 24-year-old Afghan suspect reportedly uttered the phrase “Allahu akbar” (God is greatest) to police officers, according to prosecutor Gabriele Tilmann. “He has admitted that he deliberately drove into the participants of the demonstration,” Tilmann added.
She also stated, “I’m very cautious about making hasty judgments, but based on everything we know at the moment, I would venture to speak of an Islamist motivation for the crime.”
The suspect is facing investigations on 36 counts of attempted murder, bodily harm, and dangerous interference with road traffic.
Number of Injured Victims Rises
Authorities reported that the number of injured individuals had risen to 36. German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier attended a moment of silence at the scene of the attack in central Munich.
“The brutality of this crime churns our emotions and renders us speechless,” Steinmeier said. He also noted that some of the victims included children, some of whom were seriously injured. He vowed that the perpetrator would be “held to account according to the law.”
Former Afghan President Condemns Attack
Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai expressed his condolences and condemned the attack. “I condemn the attack in Munich, Germany. My sympathies are with the victims’ families,” Karzai posted on X. “I wish the people of Germany lasting happiness and well-being, and I appreciate Germany’s steadfast support for Afghanistan.”
Details on the Suspect
The suspect arrived in Germany in 2016 as an asylum-seeker, but at the time of the incident, he held a valid residence permit and had no prior criminal charges. He was living in a rented apartment in Munich, employed, and contributing to health and social insurance.
Authorities searched his phone and social media activity. While his Instagram mostly contained athletic posts, some religious posts were also found.
The attack has raised concerns over radicalization and public safety in Germany. As investigations continue, authorities remain committed to ensuring justice and supporting the victims of this tragic incident.
