In Baden-Württemberg, an 18-year-old German-Turkish man has been arrested by the police for planning a knife attack on visitors at a synagogue in Heidelberg. The synagogue’s board is in complete shock over the incident. The suspect, along with a 24-year-old accomplice, had allegedly conspired to carry out the attack. The older suspect was arrested in early May, while the younger one was apprehended over the weekend. The Jewish community has expressed shock and disbelief over the planned attack.
The 18-year-old man from Weinheim, Baden-Württemberg, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder. He had allegedly discussed carrying out a knife attack on visitors at a synagogue in Heidelberg, with the intention of being killed by law enforcement as martyrs. The 18-year-old suspect is of German-Turkish descent. The plan was uncovered following a police operation in Bad Friedrichshall on May 3rd, during which a 24-year-old man’s home was searched for suspicion of preparing a serious act of violence against the state. The 24-year-old was caught by police after attempting to flee with kitchen knives and attacking an officer. He is currently in custody.
Further investigation revealed a connection between the 18-year-old and the 24-year-old, where they had discussed the planned knife attack in Heidelberg. The 18-year-old’s home was searched on May 18th, leading to his subsequent arrest. However, there were no immediate threats to the synagogue visitors at the time of the arrest. The Jewish community in Heidelberg has reacted with shock and disbelief to the incident, expressing concerns for their safety and the well-being of their members. The community leaders are working to reassure their members and have increased security measures.
The Jewish community leaders are collaborating with the police to determine the best course of action in response to the threat. They have also planned a human chain outside the synagogue in the evening as a show of solidarity. The Central Council of Jews in Germany has praised the police’s swift response and emphasized the importance of enhanced security measures at synagogues and Jewish facilities following the Halle synagogue attack in 2019. They have expressed trust in the security authorities and highlighted the necessity of such protective measures in light of the situation in Heidelberg. The community is working together to ensure the safety of its members.
The incident in Heidelberg underscores the ongoing threat that religious institutions face and the importance of vigilance and security measures to protect against such attacks. The authorities are investigating the case further to ensure the safety of the community and prevent any potential harm. The Jewish community has vowed to stand strong in the face of adversity and continue to practice their faith with resilience and determination. The collaboration between the community, law enforcement, and security officials is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of all members.
