A 50-year-old psychiatrist from Saudi Arabia has been charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder following an attack on a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, that killed five people and injured dozens, authorities said in a Reuters report.
The attack, which occurred Friday evening, shocked the nation and reignited debates over immigration. The suspect, identified only as Taleb A. due to German privacy laws, has lived in Germany for nearly two decades. Authorities reported that he drove a car through the crowded market, killing a nine-year-old boy and four women aged 52, 45, 75, and 67, while leaving around 40 others with serious injuries.
Investigators are still searching for a motive. Prosecutor Horst Nopens suggested frustration with Germany’s treatment of Saudi refugees might have played a role. The suspect, known for anti-Islamic rhetoric, had previously assisted Saudi citizens fleeing Islam and voiced support for the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party on social media.
The incident prompted a far-right protest in Magdeburg, where around 2,100 demonstrators gathered Saturday night. Police reported minor disturbances and announced potential criminal proceedings against participants.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz attended a service for the victims at Magdeburg’s cathedral, as political leaders called for improvements to Germany’s security measures. The attack has fueled tensions ahead of February elections, with immigration policies at the forefront of national debate.
