Germany mulls new security measures
July 31, 2016
The German interior minister is expected to announce new security measures in the wake of a string of violent attacks that have shaken the country over the past two weeks.
Speaking to Germany's "Bild am Sonntag" newspaper, Thomas de Maiziere said he was "currently examining what is still needed - in accordance with the rule of law - and will soon make suggestions." Further details were not available.
De Maiziere added that Germans should appreciate the work of police and intelligence services in fighting terror and tip off authorities to those individuals suspected of being radicalized.
"We are all fighting against terror - tough, determined and prudently. Everyone together," he said.
Spate of attacks
De Maiziere's comments come as Germany wrestles with how to respond to five attacks in the country since July 18 that have left 15 people dead, including four assailants, and dozens injured.
Three of the attacks were committed by refugees, and two of the attackers had links to militants, according to officials.
Meanwhile, Bavarian State Premier Horst Seehofer, whose state bore the brunt of recent attacks, distanced himself from Chancellor Angela Merkel's refugee policy on Saturday by rejecting her "we can do this" mantra.
bw/cmk (dpa, Reuters)