A man deliberately drove a car into a union protest in Munich, Germany, on Thursday. As a result, at least 28 people, including children, suffered injuries as per the last reports. Authorities strongly believe the act was intentional.

Police Arrested Suspect After Shooting at Car

The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. Protesters from the service workers’ union were marching peacefully when suddenly, the suspect overtook a police vehicle. Then, he accelerated and crashed into the group from behind. Consequently, police responded by firing at the car before arresting him. Meanwhile, several victims sustained serious injuries and required immediate hospitalization.

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German Chancellor Demands Tough Punishment

In response, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for strict action. “This perpetrator cannot hope for any leniency. He must be punished and he must leave the country,” he stated. Furthermore, he emphasized that if this was an attack, authorities must act decisively against potential threats.

Following the incident, Germany announced that more Afghan deportations could take place, according to AFP.

Who Is the Suspect?

Bavaria’s Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann revealed that authorities were already aware of the suspect due to previous theft and drug-related crimes. However, he did not disclose further details. Additionally, Bavaria’s Justice Minister Georg Eisenreich confirmed that a specialized prosecution unit for extremism and terrorism is now handling the case.

Bavarian Governor Calls Attack “Terrible”

Moreover, Bavarian Governor Markus Söder expressed deep sorrow over the attack. “It is simply terrible. We feel with the victims, we are praying for them — we hope very much that they all make it,” he said. In addition, he suggested that strong evidence pointed toward an intentional act. “It is suspected to be an attack — a lot points to that,” he added.

Similar Attack in Magdeburg Last Year

Notably, this is not the first such incident in Germany. Last year, a Saudi doctor drove a car into a crowded Christmas market in Magdeburg. As a result, six people died and over 200 suffered injuries. Authorities arrested him immediately. Unlike typical extremist attackers, the suspect identified as an ex-Muslim and expressed far-right views on social media.

Overall, authorities are investigating the Munich attack thoroughly, while concerns about public safety continue to rise.