German Minister Promises New Measures Against Illegal Migration

In response to a recent stabbing attack in Solingen, Germany, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser declared new stringent measures against illegal immigration, Islamism, and knife-related crimes. Faeser stated that law enforcement and local government agencies will receive expanded powers to enforce these new policies.

The tragic incident on August 23 saw an assailant, armed with a knife, attack attendees at the Festival of Diversity in Solingen, located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region. This assault resulted in three fatalities and eight injuries, with the suspect fleeing thereafter.

The authorities apprehended a 26-year-old Syrian asylum seeker, identified only as Issa Al H., who arrived in Germany in 2022. There are indications, based on media outlets, that he might have been instructed by the Islamic State (IS, previously known as ISIS), which has taken credit for the violence.

At a recently held news conference, Faeser emphasized the government's determination, stating, "we as the state will respond to this terrorist act with all the necessary severity."

Further details mentioned by Faeser included tightening gun control laws, enhancing the capabilities of security forces to counteract Islamism more aggressively, and implementing more decisive actions in accelerating deportations and mitigating illegal immigration.

Specifically, the proposed security initiatives will prohibit knives at various public events and venues, such as festivals and sports gatherings, with local authorities having the discretion to apply similar prohibitions in areas prone to crime like railway stations.

"Police are getting the [power] to carry out random checks even without suspicion," Faeser mentioned, highlighting a significant increase in police powers. She also mentioned more robust procedures to block extremists from acquiring firearm licenses, outlining a collaborative review process involving various law enforcement and investigative bodies during the gun permit application.

Additionally, there will be a hastening of the deportation process for migrants not entitled to remain in Germany and a discontinuation of benefits for asylum seekers slated for return to other EU nations under the Dublin Regulation.

A specialized task force, involving federal and regional authorities, will be set up to ensure more effective management of deportations.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who also visited the location of the attack, reinforced the commitment to security, stating, "We must do everything we can to ensure that such things never happen in our country."

Mathilde Moreau for TROIB News