In the wake of a significant surge in knife violence, up by an astounding 40% according to authorities, Interior Minister Reul is declaring a war on this trend in North Rhine-Westphalia. Reul intends to tackle this issue head-on, zeroing in on the driver's licenses of violent offenders. These individuals, with a history of criminal involvement, should be reported to traffic authorities, aiming to revoke or deny them a driver's license, according to Reul.
Reul presented a spectrum of measures designed to counteract knife violence. Local police authorities can utilize these strategies as a guide. The minister underscored the predominant young and male nature of public knife violence, pointing to an increase of 42.6% to 3,536 cases in 2023.
The majority of offenders, comprising 55%, are German citizens. Reul expressed concern about the overrepresentation of non-citizens, as they account for 45% of knife crime incidents, despite making up a smaller portion of the population. This Masculinist behavior, conflictive with societal norms, could be associated with knife-carrying, Reul suggested.
In response to the knife attack in Solingen, the federal government unveiled plans to prevent further incidents. The traffic light coalition promised a package of measures shortly, addressing the perpetrator's deportation to their country of origin, combatting Islamist terrorism, and weapons regulation. Exact details and timelines have yet to be revealed.
The investigative commission exploring the surge in knife violence concluded that 55% of offenders are German citizens. They suggested collaboration with the Commission for Integration and Migration to tackle this issue.
Interestingly, records show that Germany has recently experienced multiple high-profile incidents involving knife attacks, such as the Solingen tragedy. The Government has reacted by strengthening legislation against foreigners suspected of terror-related crimes, making it easier to deport those who advocate or promote terrorist activities. This comes on the heels of large-scale raids targeting far-right extremist groups, particularly those involved in violent acts directed against refugee shelters and mosques.
Reul emphasized the need for a heightened police presence towards young refugees hailing from violent societies. They must be made aware that carrying knives publicly is unnecessary and undesirable in Germany due to its monopoly on violence. By addressing these underlying factors, Reul aims to curb the rise in knife violence and maintain order in society.
