Magdeburg [Germany], December 22: Seven Indian nationals were injured in a car attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday. Three of them have been discharged from the hospital, while the Indian Mission is closely monitoring the condition of the others, according to sources.
The attack, which sent shockwaves around the world, involved a car deliberately crashing into a crowd at the bustling Christmas market. At least five people were killed in the incident, including an adult and a toddler, as reported by Saxony-Anhalt Prime Minister Reiner Haseloff. The incident also left 68 others injured, with 15 in serious condition, 37 sustaining moderate injuries, and 16 suffering minor wounds.
Haseloff confirmed that the suspect behind the attack is a Saudi national who had been living in Germany since 2006 and worked as a doctor. “We are gathering further information and conducting an interrogation. As of now, the investigation indicates that it was an individual attack, and there is no further danger to the city as we have arrested the suspect,” Haseloff said in a televised address.
World leaders have expressed their shock and solidarity following the attack. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the assault, saying, “I am horrified by the atrocious attack in Magdeburg tonight. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected. We stand with the people of Germany.”
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed similar sentiments, expressing solidarity with Germany and the victims: “Deeply shocked by the horror that struck the Magdeburg Christmas market in Germany this evening. My thoughts are with the victims, the injured, and their loved ones. France stands in full solidarity with the German people.”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also condemned the violence, stating, “I am deeply shocked by the brutal attack on the defenseless crowd at the Christmas market. Violence must have no place in our democracies. My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and the entire German people.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered her condolences, saying, “My thoughts are with the victims of this cowardly act in Magdeburg. My condolences go out to the families and friends, and I thank the police and rescue workers for their efforts. This act of violence must be thoroughly investigated and severely punished.”
German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser described the incident as deeply disturbing, praising the efforts of emergency services to manage the aftermath. “This news from Magdeburg is deeply shocking. Emergency services are doing everything they can to care for the injured. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” Faeser said.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect has been arrested and investigations are underway to determine the motive behind the attack. Officials assured the public that there is no indication of further threats.
The Indian Mission in Germany, in collaboration with local authorities, is ensuring that the injured Indian nationals receive the necessary care and support.