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- Illegal cigarettes flood Phuket
The Excise Office has reported a sharp rise in illegal cigarette activity during the New Year holiday, with incidents tripling compared to normal levels. Excise chief Sutham Suriyo stated that authorities have been directed to intensify enforcement efforts, focusing on retailers and smugglers openly selling illegal cigarettes to consumers and...
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The Excise Office has reported a sharp rise in illegal cigarette activity during the New Year holiday, with incidents tripling compared to normal levels. Excise chief Sutham Suriyo stated that authorities have been directed to intensify enforcement efforts, focusing on retailers and smugglers openly selling illegal cigarettes to consumers and tourists in defiance of the law.
Sutham highlighted the growing prevalence of illegal cigarette consumption in early 2024, with over 60% of cases occurring in southern provinces. Phuket ranked fourth among the worst-affected areas, following Songkhla, Satun, and Phatthalung, with illicit cigarette use in the province reaching 74.4%.
“In the early months of 2024, including the New Year holiday period, 26,669 packs of illegal cigarettes, valued at 2.96 million baht, were seized in Phuket,” Sutham reported. “This marked a significant increase compared to the annual average of 9,800 packs per month. Total seizures for 2024 so far amount to 117,580 packs, valued at 116.54 million baht. The surge in smuggling and distribution during the New Year holiday has resulted in a threefold increase in incidents.”
The spike in illegal activity coincided with the long New Year holiday, which saw an influx of tourists. Opportunistic cigarette sellers capitalized on the season’s high demand by stocking and selling illegal cigarettes. They exploited the focus of security officials on travel safety and public festivities to smuggle in larger quantities of contraband.
In response, the Phuket Excise Office has strengthened its crackdown on illegal, tax-evading, and counterfeit cigarettes. Authorities have been instructed to enhance investigations, ramp up arrests, and suppress smuggling operations across all sales channels.
Special attention is being given to online platforms, where an uptick in illegal cigarette orders has been detected. Many of these are transported through private delivery companies or postal services, causing substantial revenue losses for the government. Stricter law enforcement measures have been implemented to address this issue and curb the illegal trade effectively.
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23 December 23 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210297 - Icelandic Man Found Living with Dead Thai Women
An Icelandic man was discovered staying in a guesthouse in Pattaya with the decomposing body of his partner for more than three days, claiming he was unaware of her death. Pattaya police responded to a report of a woman’s body in an advanced state of decomposition in a fifth-floor room...
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An Icelandic man was discovered staying in a guesthouse in Pattaya with the decomposing body of his partner for more than three days, claiming he was unaware of her death.
Pattaya police responded to a report of a woman’s body in an advanced state of decomposition in a fifth-floor room at a guesthouse on Jomtien Beach Road, Soi Somprasong Plaza. Officers arrived at the scene alongside forensic experts, a physician from Banglamung Hospital, and rescue workers.
The incident occurred in a five-story building offering daily and monthly room rentals. In the room, authorities found the body of Ms. Duangta Khampongsom, a 45-year-old Thai woman from Sisaket province. She was lying on the bed, topless, and wearing denim shorts. Her body showed signs of having been deceased for at least three days, with visible decomposition and a strong odor. No evidence of a struggle or theft was found in the room.
Mr. Prayun, the 57-year-old guesthouse manager, reported detecting a foul smell emanating from the room. After receiving no response to his knocks, he used a spare key to enter and discovered the body. The room had been rented by a 71-year-old Icelandic man identified only as Mr. E. However, he was not present at the time of the discovery. Police later found him near Jomtien Beach, close to the guesthouse.
Reports from rescue workers and police have conflicted about Mr. E’s nationality, with claims that he might be Icelandic, Irish, or of mixed heritage. Upon being questioned, Mr. E appeared disoriented and provided an inconsistent account. He claimed Ms. Duangta was a bar worker he invited to his room on December 18th. According to him, she mentioned being assaulted and feeling unwell before spending most of her time sleeping.
Mr. E stated that his last interaction with her was on December 19th and that he assumed she had been resting in bed since then. He denied harming her and claimed he did not realize she had died, nor did he notice the smell of decomposition. Police, however, expressed skepticism about his account, given the confined space of the room and the extent of the body’s decay.
An initial autopsy at Banglamung Hospital could not determine the cause of Ms. Duangta’s death but confirmed she had been deceased for over three days. Her body was sent to the Police General Hospital’s forensic institute for further examination.
Mr. E was taken to a local police station for questioning and DNA sampling. Forensic officers are continuing their investigation, collecting fingerprints and examining the scene. Police have not ruled out any possibilities and are reviewing the case further.
CCTV footage from the guesthouse captured Mr. E at 9:58 AM on December 22nd, appearing calm and behaving normally. He was seen stepping briefly out of the room before re-entering, showing no signs of distress or concern. The investigation remains ongoing.
credit TPN
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23 December 23 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210294 - Early Bronze Age Bones Reveal Dark Tale of Cannibalism in Britain
New archaeological findings point to a grim chapter in early British prehistory, revealing evidence of cannibalism dating back nearly 4,000 years. Researchers have uncovered what is described as the bloodiest massacre in British history—a horrific event in rural Somerset that occurred around 2,200 to 2,000 BC. The site, initially discovered...
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New archaeological findings point to a grim chapter in early British prehistory, revealing evidence of cannibalism dating back nearly 4,000 years. Researchers have uncovered what is described as the bloodiest massacre in British history—a horrific event in rural Somerset that occurred around 2,200 to 2,000 BC.
The site, initially discovered about 50 years ago, contains human remains marked by cut marks, shattered skulls, and signs of chewing, suggesting both violent mass murder and cannibalism. Recent investigations reviewed approximately 3,000 fragmented bones believed to belong to at least 37 individuals—men, women, and children—who suffered fatal violence.
The discovery represents the largest known instance of interpersonal violence in prehistoric Britain. Notably, nearly half of the remains were from teenagers and children, indicating an entire community may have been devastated in one brutal occurrence. The bones were discovered thrown into a 15-meter-deep limestone shaft and displayed numerous signs of butchery, including defleshing, disarticulation, and marrow extraction, alongside evidence of human chew marks.
Why Were These People Killed?
Experts suggest that the motivations behind this violence were not driven by resource scarcity or hunger, as cattle bones found alongside human remains indicate sufficient food availability. There is no evidence of competition for resources or significant climatic changes in the region at that time. Furthermore, the absence of genetic proof linking different groups in the area suggests that ethnic or interpersonal conflict could have driven the massacre. Blunt force trauma to the skulls implies the victims were intentionally targeted, and a lack of defensive injuries indicates they were likely caught by surprise.
Lead author of the study, Rick J. Schulting, asserts that such archaeological investigations provide valuable insights into the nature of human violence throughout history. He speculates that factors like theft, particularly of cattle, or social disputes might have escalated into violent retribution.
“Such extreme violence is unlikely to have been an isolated incident,” Schulting says. “It could have triggered cycles of revenge among the victims’ families and communities.”
Implications for Early Bronze Age Society
These findings challenge previously held perceptions of the early Bronze Age as a predominantly peaceful era. Spanning from roughly 2500 to 800 BC, this period is noted for advances in metalworking, agriculture, and trade. Previous excavations revealed few skeletons with injuries from this era, suggesting limited violence; however, by examining the new evidence, researchers are uncovering the potential for large-scale conflict during that time.
Evidence of illness, including signs of plague in the teeth of two children, indicates that disease may have heightened social tensions.
Cannibalism in Historical Context
Cannibalism, while not a widespread cultural practice, has been documented sporadically throughout history. Studies of prehistoric European sites indicate that cannibalism was identified in fewer than 10% of assemblages, typically associated with specific rituals or survival situations. For instance, Gough’s Cave near Charterhouse Warren presents evidence of ritualistic cannibalism, including the creation of “skull cups” from human remains for ceremonial purposes.
Globally, ritual and survival cannibalism have been reported among ancient Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztecs and Indigenous groups such as the Fore people of Papua New Guinea, where it was practiced as part of mortuary rituals.
Overall, these archaeological findings provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of human behavior and societal structures in early Bronze Age Britain, revealing a darker narrative that challenges previously simplistic views of this historical period.
Credit: Aljazeera
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23 December 23 2024Internationalhttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210291 - Increasing Reports of Executions of Ukrainian POWs by Russia
Ukrainian sniper Oleksandr Matsievsky was captured by Russian forces during the early months of the full-scale invasion. A video later emerged showing him smoking his last cigarette in a forest, reportedly beside a grave he had been forced to dig. In the video, he boldly declared, “Glory to Ukraine!” just...
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Ukrainian sniper Oleksandr Matsievsky was captured by Russian forces during the early months of the full-scale invasion. A video later emerged showing him smoking his last cigarette in a forest, reportedly beside a grave he had been forced to dig. In the video, he boldly declared, “Glory to Ukraine!” just moments before gunfire erupted, ending his life.
This tragic incident is not isolated. In October, nine captured Ukrainian soldiers were allegedly shot dead by Russian forces in the Kursk region, prompting Ukrainian prosecutors to investigate reports, including disturbing images of half-naked bodies on the ground. One of the identified victims, drone operator Ruslan Holubenko, was recognized by his mother through his underwear. “I bought it for him before a trip to the sea,” she told local broadcaster Suspilne Chernihiv, visibly distraught.
The escalation of such executions continues. Ukrainian authorities are investigating accounts of beheadings and incidents where soldiers were killed with swords while their hands were bound. In another reported event, a video revealed 16 Ukrainian soldiers apparently being lined up and shot after surrendering. Some of these executions were captured on video by Russian soldiers, while others were monitored by Ukrainian drones from above.
The footage usually depicts the killings occurring in unremarkable wooded or open fields, complicating the verification of specific locations. However, BBC Verify has confirmed in several instances that the victims were wearing Ukrainian uniforms and that the videos are recent.
According to the Ukrainian prosecution service, at least 147 Ukrainian prisoners of war have been executed by Russian forces since the start of the full-scale invasion, with 127 of those cases occurring this year alone. “The upward trend is very clear, very obvious,” stated Yuri Belousov, head of the War Department at the Ukrainian Prosecutor-General’s Office. He highlighted that executions have become systematic since November of the previous year, particularly increasing during the summer and autumn months, indicating a broader policy behind the violence.
International humanitarian law, particularly the Third Geneva Convention, mandates the protection of prisoners of war, and executing them constitutes a war crime. Despite this, Ramzan Kadyrov, the Chechen leader, had previously instructed his commanders in the Ukraine conflict to “take no prisoners.”
Rachel Denber, Deputy Director of the Europe and Central Asia Division at Human Rights Watch, emphasizes that there is substantial evidence supporting allegations of Russian troops executing Ukrainian POWs. She raises critical questions about command responsibility and the clarity of guidelines regarding the treatment of prisoners. “If higher-ups are not investigating these acts or taking steps to prevent them, they are also criminally liable,” she stated.
Thus far, there is no indication that Russia is investigating claims that its forces executed Ukrainian POWs. Discussing similar allegations can lead to severe penalties in Russia.
In statements, Vladimir Putin has claimed that Russian forces have always treated Ukrainian POWs “in strict accordance with international legal documents and conventions.”
While allegations have surfaced of Ukrainian forces executing Russian POWs, these reports have been significantly fewer in number. Belousov assured that the Ukrainian prosecution service is investigating such allegations seriously, although no charges have been filed yet.
Since the invasion began in February 2022, Human Rights Watch asserts that Russian forces have committed numerous violations, many of which warrant classification as war crimes or crimes against humanity. The alarming climate of abuse has led some Ukrainian soldiers to prefer death over capture. Holubenko’s mother recounted her son’s determination: “He told me: Mum, I’ll never surrender, never. Forgive me, I know you’ll cry, but I don’t want to be tortured.” Currently classified as missing in action, she holds out hope for his return. “I want to believe, I don’t want to think that he’s gone.”
Credit: BBC News
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23 December 23 2024Internationalhttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210288 - Woman Dies After Being Set on Fire on NYC Subway
A man has been arrested in connection with the death of a woman who was set on fire on a subway train in Brooklyn, New York. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the incident on Sunday as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human...
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A man has been arrested in connection with the death of a woman who was set on fire on a subway train in Brooklyn, New York.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the incident on Sunday as “one of the most depraved crimes one person could possibly commit against another human being.” The attack occurred when the woman was on a stationary F train to Brooklyn and was approached by the suspect, who used a lighter to ignite her clothing.
Tragically, the victim died at the scene. Following a tip-off from a group of high school students, the suspect was apprehended later that day while riding the subway. The woman, whose identity has not yet been released, was attacked at the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station around 7:30 a.m. local time.
According to police, there was no interaction between the woman and the man prior to the assault, and they do not believe the two knew each other. The suspect exited the train as police officers, who were patrolling the station, responded to the fire.
“Officers were on patrol on an upper level of that station, smelled and saw smoke and went to investigate,” Tisch explained. “What they saw was a person standing inside the train car fully engulfed in flames.”
Investigators are still working to identify the victim and determine the motive behind the attack. After the initial incident, the suspect remained near the scene, seated on a bench on the platform just outside the train car.
Responding officers obtained a good look at the man, and the NYPD circulated images to aid in his identification. Later, three high school students alerted 911 after recognizing the suspect on another train. Officers subsequently boarded that train and located him at Herald Square station, near the Empire State Building in Manhattan.
The police commissioner noted that the suspect had a lighter in his pocket when he was arrested. “I want to thank the young people who called 911 to help,” Tisch stated. “They saw something, they said something, and they did something.”
The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, emigrated from Guatemala to the U.S. in 2018. NYPD detective Joseph Gulotta mentioned that investigators are still determining whether the victim was asleep when she was set on fire. “She’s definitely there, she’s motionless,” he said, emphasizing that there was no interaction between the two before the attack.
Credit: BBC News
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23 December 23 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210285 - Trump Threatens to Regain Control of Panama Canal
President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal on Sunday, claiming Panama has been charging excessive rates for passage through the strategic waterway. His remarks drew a sharp rebuttal from Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino. Speaking to supporters in Arizona, Trump warned against potential Chinese influence...
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President-elect Donald Trump threatened to reassert U.S. control over the Panama Canal on Sunday, claiming Panama has been charging excessive rates for passage through the strategic waterway. His remarks drew a sharp rebuttal from Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino.
Speaking to supporters in Arizona, Trump warned against potential Chinese influence over the canal, insisting he would not allow it to fall into “the wrong hands.” After the event, he shared a post on Truth Social featuring an image of an American flag over water, captioned, “Welcome to the United States Canal!”
“Has anyone ever heard of the Panama Canal?” Trump asked during the AmericaFest event, organized by Turning Point, a conservative group. “Because we’re being ripped off at the Panama Canal like we’re being ripped off everywhere else.” His comments marked a rare instance of a U.S. leader openly suggesting that a sovereign country might relinquish control over its territory, signaling a potential shift in U.S. diplomatic approach under Trump.
“The canal was given to Panama and the people of Panama, but it has provisions,” he stated, referencing the treaty under which the U.S. transferred control of the canal to Panama decades ago. “If the moral and legal principles of this magnanimous gesture are not followed, we may demand that the Panama Canal be returned to us, quickly and without question.”
In response, President Mulino released a recorded message asserting Panama’s independence was non-negotiable, denying any Chinese influence in managing the canal. He defended the canal’s passage rates, stating they were not arbitrary.
While China does not control the canal itself, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings manages two ports at the canal’s Caribbean and Pacific entrances. Historically, the U.S. built and administered the canal until the 1977 treaties facilitated its return to Panama, culminating in the complete transfer of control in 1999.
“Every square meter of the Panama Canal and the surrounding area belongs to Panama and will continue to belong to Panama,” Mulino emphasized in his statement on X.
Trump retorted, “We’ll see about that!”
The Panama Canal is vital for global trade, handling up to 14,000 vessels annually and accounting for 2.5% of worldwide seaborne trade, pivotal for U.S. imports and exports.
It remains unclear how Trump would attempt to regain control of the canal, as international law would likely not support any claim. This isn’t the first time Trump has floated ideas of territorial acquisition; he has previously proposed making Canada a U.S. state and expressed interest in purchasing Greenland during his presidency, a notion rejected by Danish officials.
On Sunday, he reiterated the importance of Greenland, stating that ownership is vital for national security, alongside his announcement of Ken Howery as his ambassador to Denmark. “For purposes of National Security and Freedom throughout the World, the United States of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Credit: Reuters
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23 December 23 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210282 - Common Hazards on Pattaya’s Roads
Navigating Pattaya’s Roads: Tips for Tourists to Stay Safe Pattaya, renowned for its lively nightlife, scenic beaches, and tourist hotspots, also presents significant challenges on its roads. While the city offers plenty of excitement, visitors must exercise caution to avoid accidents and ensure a safe experience. Common Hazards on Pattaya’s...
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Navigating Pattaya’s Roads: Tips for Tourists to Stay Safe
Pattaya, renowned for its lively nightlife, scenic beaches, and tourist hotspots, also presents significant challenges on its roads. While the city offers plenty of excitement, visitors must exercise caution to avoid accidents and ensure a safe experience.
Common Hazards on Pattaya’s Roads
Reckless Driving and Traffic Congestion
Reckless driving is a major concern in Pattaya. Motorbike riders often weave through traffic unpredictably, and drivers may speed or fail to signal when changing lanes. Heavy traffic jams, especially around key intersections and tourist areas, further heighten the risk of accidents.
Pedestrian Risks
Pedestrians face dangers from vehicles that frequently ignore crosswalks and motorbikes that may drive on sidewalks. These risks are exacerbated at night when visibility is reduced. Distractions such as using mobile phones while walking can increase vulnerability.
Motorbike Rentals and Accidents
Motorbike rentals are popular among tourists but come with significant risks. Many riders are unfamiliar with local traffic norms or the handling of motorbikes. Failure to wear helmets and poorly maintained rental vehicles also contribute to frequent accidents.
Poor Road Conditions
Uneven roads, potholes, and cracks are common in Pattaya, creating hazards for drivers and pedestrians alike. During the rainy season, waterlogged and slippery roads further increase the danger.
Drunk Driving
Pattaya’s vibrant nightlife leads to a high incidence of drunk driving. Tourists driving under the influence or encountering intoxicated drivers can face serious risks.
Safety Tips for Tourists
- For Motorbike Riders: Always wear a helmet, even for short rides. Inspect the motorbike for functionality before renting, and avoid riding if unfamiliar with the vehicle or local driving conditions.
- For Pedestrians: Use designated crossings and remain vigilant, even when crossing at marked crosswalks. Avoid distractions such as mobile phones or headphones near busy roads.
- Avoid Drunk Driving: If you’ve consumed alcohol, opt for safer alternatives like taxis or rideshare services. Avoid walking in areas with heavy traffic late at night to minimize exposure to intoxicated drivers.
- Stay Alert: Be cautious of reckless drivers who may ignore traffic signals or yield signs. Pay close attention to vehicles in your vicinity.
- Prepare for Road Conditions: If driving, be mindful of uneven surfaces and potholes, particularly during the rainy season.
By following these precautions and staying vigilant, tourists can safely navigate Pattaya’s challenging roads and enjoy the city’s attractions with greater peace of mind.
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22 December 22 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210279 - Pattaya court sentences gang to Death
In a high-profile murder case that captured international attention, the Pattaya Provincial Court has delivered verdicts for the brutal killing of Hans Peter Walter Mack, a 62-year-old German real estate businessman. The crime, committed on July 5, 2023, in Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, involved premeditated murder, dismemberment, and attempts to conceal...
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In a high-profile murder case that captured international attention, the Pattaya Provincial Court has delivered verdicts for the brutal killing of Hans Peter Walter Mack, a 62-year-old German real estate businessman. The crime, committed on July 5, 2023, in Nongprue, Banglamung, Chonburi, involved premeditated murder, dismemberment, and attempts to conceal the body.
The court sentenced three individuals:
- Mr. Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann, 52,
- Ms. Petra Christl Grundgreif, 54, both German nationals,
- and Mr. Shahrooq Karim Uddin, 27, a Thai-Pakistani national.
The suspects lured Mr. Mack to his death, dismembered his body, and attempted to dispose of it at sea. They also transferred 3,350,000 THB from his bank account.
Police investigations, supported by witness testimony, forensic evidence, and documentation, implicated the trio, who initially denied the charges.
Sentences:
- During the trial, Mr. Brinkmann and Ms. Grundgreif confessed, prompting the court to reduce their death sentences to life imprisonment.
- Mr. Uddin, maintaining his innocence throughout, received the death penalty.
In a related ruling on November 22, 2023, the court sentenced another German national, Enrico, to six years in prison for aiding in the theft of funds connected to the case.
This landmark judgment provides a measure of justice in a case that shocked both local and international communities.
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22 December 22 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210276 - SMS scams to fraud cases say Police
Scammers in 2024 have predominantly used romance scams, friend impostor schemes, fraudulent links sent via short messages, and false accusation calls to exploit victims, a deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police Office revealed on Sunday. Between March 1 and November 30 this year, victims filed 739,000 cybercrime complaints through...
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Scammers in 2024 have predominantly used romance scams, friend impostor schemes, fraudulent links sent via short messages, and false accusation calls to exploit victims, a deputy spokesman for the Royal Thai Police Office revealed on Sunday.
Between March 1 and November 30 this year, victims filed 739,000 cybercrime complaints through www.thaipoliceonline.go.th, reporting losses totaling 77 billion baht—an average of 77 million baht daily, according to Pol Maj Gen Siriwat Deepor.
The four most common scams include:
- Romance Scams: Fraudsters create fake social media accounts to develop online relationships with victims, claiming to have sent valuable parcels held at customs due to unpaid taxes. Victims are persuaded to pay the duties with promises of reimbursement. Scammers may also convince victims to invest in fraudulent schemes.
- Friend Impostor Scams: Scammers pose as friends or relatives, calling victims and asking them to guess who is speaking. Once the victim is deceived, the fraudster requests money under the pretense of needing urgent help.
- Fraudulent Links in Text Messages: Victims receive messages containing links promoting fake lucky-draw prizes, discounts, or parcel retrievals. Clicking these links often leads to personal data theft or unauthorized access to bank accounts.
- Government Official Impersonation: Fraudsters call victims claiming to be officials and accuse them of involvement in illegal activities. They then demand a money transfer for verification or persuade victims to install malicious applications.
Pol Maj Gen Siriwat urged the public to stay vigilant and monitor loved ones for signs of falling victim to such scams. Anyone suspecting they’ve been targeted should file complaints through www.thaipoliceonline.go.th or contact the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CIB) hotline at 1441, available 24/7.
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22 December 22 2024Breaking Newshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210273 - Political Tensions Rise at Memorial for Magdeburg Attack Victims
A spontaneous memorial established by grieving families and local residents at a church overlooking Magdeburg’s Christmas market transformed into a politically charged gathering on Saturday, following a tragic car-ramming attack that resulted in five deaths and over 200 injuries. The evolving atmosphere at the memorial reflects the heightened political tensions...
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A spontaneous memorial established by grieving families and local residents at a church overlooking Magdeburg’s Christmas market transformed into a politically charged gathering on Saturday, following a tragic car-ramming attack that resulted in five deaths and over 200 injuries.
The evolving atmosphere at the memorial reflects the heightened political tensions in Germany, particularly surrounding immigration issues and the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. Authorities apprehended a Saudi man with a history of anti-Islamic rhetoric, though the motives behind the attack remain unclear.
Initially, the site was filled with sorrow as people laid flowers outside the church early in the morning. Andrea Reis, 57, and her daughter Julia, 34, shared their close call with the incident, revealing they avoided being in the car’s path due to Julia’s preference to continue walking around the market rather than stopping for food. “The terrible sounds of children crying for their parents and calling for help are haunting me now,” Reis said, tears streaming down her face.
As the day progressed, public sentiment shifted. Many initially drew comparisons between this incident and the 2016 Berlin Christmas market attack, which was carried out by an Islamist-influenced immigrant. However, it later surfaced that the suspect, a psychiatrist who had lived in Germany for 18 years, criticized Islam and sympathized with far-right views on social media. This prompted reaction from far-right figures, with Martin Sellner, an influential Austrian right-wing figure, suggesting that the suspect’s motives were complex, stating he “hated Islam, but he hated the Germans more.”
Politicians, including Chancellor Olaf Scholz, visited the memorial to pay their respects as time went on. However, when Tino Chrupalla, co-leader of the AfD, arrived, the crowd was composed mainly of young people responding to calls from the party’s youth wing on social media to participate in a vigil. The AfD, which has seen rising support in eastern Germany, recently finished strong in three regional elections this autumn and is preparing for upcoming national elections in February.
Many attendees were adorned with symbols linked to neopaganism and other mystical movements associated with the far-right. One young man from the AfD’s youth wing wore an amulet resembling the hammer of the Norse god Thor and identified himself as a follower of the “old gods.”
Interior Minister Nancy Faeser expressed concern that the incident could be exploited by far-right groups, noting, however, that there is little that can be done to prevent seemingly coordinated gatherings. “We have freedom of assembly in this country,” she stated while visiting the scene. “We must ensure that the attack is not misused by either side.”
Credit: Reuters
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22 December 22 2024Global Politicshttps://pattayaone.news/?p=210267