Seven Indians injured in deadly Christmas market attack in Germany
Seven Indian nationals were among the injured in a tragic attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday, according to sources. Three of the injured have already been discharged from the hospital, and the Indian Embassy has been in constant touch with the victims and their families to provide assistance.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) condemned the “horrific and senseless attack,” expressing sorrow over the loss of several lives and the many injuries sustained. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. Our Mission is in contact with the injured Indians and their families, and we are providing all possible support,” the MEA stated.
The attack, which occurred just days before Christmas, left five people dead and more than 200 injured when the suspect, identified as Saudi national Taleb al-Abdulmohsen, drove an SUV at high speed into a crowded area of the market. The attack sent shockwaves through Germany, drawing comparisons to the 2016 jihadist truck attack in Berlin.
Also read: Saudi man drives BMW through Christmas market in Germany, 2 dead
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz strongly condemned the attack, calling it “terrible” and “insane.” The tragedy has been especially poignant for the nation as it occurred close to Christmas, with a nine-year-old among the deceased. Casualties were treated in 15 regional hospitals following the attack, while the market, which had been filled with festive stalls selling traditional goods, was cancelled for the year.
Abdulmohsen, who held strong anti-Islam views, reportedly had grievances against Germany’s migrant policy. Interior Minister Nancy Fraser described his views as “Islamophobic,” and prosecutors indicated that his discontent might have stemmed from the treatment of Saudi Arabian refugees in Germany. He was also described as a “psychologically disturbed” individual by rights groups.
Surveillance footage showed the attacker driving a black BMW through the festive crowd, causing chaos and panic among market-goers. As the area remains cordoned off, the stalls surrounding the now-empty Christmas tree are left as a somber reminder of the violent event.
This incident has stirred a sense of fear and unease among local residents, with many concerned about the impact of the foreign nationality of the suspect on public sentiment. Far-right leader Alice Weidel also weighed in on the tragedy, expressing her alarm over the continuing violence.
