Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 26
Germany Hunts 21-Year-Old Abdul Ballout After Berlin Pride Van Attack Kills 1
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 26

Germany Hunts 21-Year-Old Abdul Ballout After Berlin Pride Van Attack Kills 1

3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 26

Summary

  • German authorities issued a wanted notice for 21-year-old Abdul Ballout and warned the public not to approach him after the Berlin Pride attack left one dead and at least 16 injured.
  • Alexander Dobrindt said all evidence points to Islamist terrorism, describing Ballout as previously known for repeated offences, radicalisation and links to Berlin's Islamist scene.
  • Police said a white van swerved into people near Tiergarten and Brandenburg Gate before crashing into a tree; the vehicle was found empty, and several victims were apparently also stabbed.
  • German media reported Ballout had tried to travel to the Middle East last year to join Islamic State and was convicted in May of preparing a serious act of subversive violence.
  • The assault cut short one of Europe's largest Pride events, drew solidarity from European leaders and intensified pressure on Germany after a run of vehicle and knife attacks.

Insights

How did a known extremist evade over 2,000 police officers to execute a deadly van and machete attack at Berlin's Pride festival?
With the 21-year-old suspect still at large, could a hidden terror cell be planning another strike in Europe?