Three people were killed in a suspected terrorist attack in Germany on Friday evening.
But the perpetrator has not yet been arrested and according to terrorism researcher Magnus Ranstorp, information about what is behind the crime is very scarce.
– We do not know the exact motivation, and as long as we do not know, we cannot make any judgment whether it is right-wing extremism, radical Islamism or some other type of motivation behind it.
The city of Solingen was to celebrate 650 years with a party and concerts. Instead, three people were killed in Friday evening’s knife attack.
– It is a mindless act of insanity, says terrorism researcher Magnus Ranstorp.
“Febrile activity”
Earlier on Saturday, a 15-year-old boy was arrested and the incident is being investigated as an act of terrorism. According to Magnus Ranstorp, it is too early to say what might be behind the attack.
– It is wrong to speculate about these acts. The police have also said “don’t speculate about this,” he says.
Recently, radical Islamist groups have increasingly targeted Europe. But also a growing right-wing extremism is seen as an ever greater threat to European security.
– Above all, IS Khorasan in Afghanistan has targeted Sweden and various European countries. There has been feverish activity, but at the same time we also have far-right forces and we must be aware of that, that it is also on the radar.
The perpetrator remains at large
According to Ranstorp, these acts of insanity have several consequences. In Germany, there is already a debate going on about how long the knives should be, due to knife crimes in the country in recent times.
– If it is about right-wing extremism or radical Islamism, there are also consequences. Because it can lead to conspiracy theories, polarization and a lot that goes against social cohesion, he says.
Comprehensive collection of evidence
A major search effort has been underway for the perpetrator since the attack – but without an arrest. Something that, according to Magnus Ranstorp, is very unusual.
– An arrest is often made very close to the crime. It often involves individuals on the street intervening. But it hasn’t happened now and I know the police are asking for photos, videos, everything. It is really gathering evidence, he says and continues:
– At the same time, a 15-year-old has been arrested and is being interrogated. I think that will very quickly lead to finding out what motive is behind it.