Syrian Suspect in Custody After Solingen Stabbing Rampage

A 26-year-old Syrian man is in custody for a stabbing attack in Solingen, Germany, that killed three and injured eight. The suspect admitted to the crime, which Islamic State claimed responsibility for. This incident stirs fears ahead of upcoming state elections in Germany, particularly for the far-right AfD party.

A 26-year-old Syrian man is in custody following a stabbing rampage in Solingen, Germany, that left three dead and eight injured. The suspect turned himself in and admitted to the crime, according to a joint statement from Duesseldorf police and prosecutors. Intensive investigations are currently underway.

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the attack, which took place during a festival at the Fronhof market square. Authorities warned that the incident could inflame tensions ahead of three state elections next month, where the anti-immigrant far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) is a strong contender.

German federal prosecutors are investigating whether the suspect is a member of Islamic State, following the group's statement calling him a 'soldier of the Islamic State.' The authorities stress that the threat of jihadist-motivated violence remains high as Germany remains a target for terrorist organizations.

(With inputs from agencies.)