Suspect Arrested in Solingen Knife Attack Amid Calls for Stricter Weapons Laws

Police have arrested a suspect linked to the Solingen knife attack, which left three dead and eight injured. The arrested individual's clothes were reportedly blood-stained. The assault has prompted calls for stronger weapons laws from German leaders. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, although this hasn't been verified.

Authorities have detained a suspect in connection to the deadly knife attack in Solingen, according to DW News. North Rhine-Westphalia Interior Minister Herbert Reul confirmed the arrest, although it remains unclear if this is one of the two individuals previously apprehended.

Reul stated that the man is strongly suspected of the crime, citing both evidence and a substantial lead. 'I am somewhat relieved,' the minister mentioned, adding that the suspect's clothes were reportedly soiled and covered in blood, as per Der Spiegel.

The brutal attack resulted in three fatalities and left eight others injured, including four in critical condition. The Islamic State has claimed responsibility, labeling the knifeman as a 'soldier of the Islamic State' targeting a 'Christian gathering', purportedly as revenge for Muslims in Palestine and elsewhere, though independent verification is pending.

The attack transpired at the 'Festival of Diversity' in Fronhof, celebrating Solingen's 650th anniversary. German officials, including Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, have called for tightening weapon laws, arguing for more weapon-free zones. The SPD's Nancy Faeser and FDP's Marco Buschmann echoed the sentiment, highlighting an urgent need for stringent regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)