Parliamentary Committee Convenes for Magdeburg Christmas Market Attack Investigation
Magdeburg, Germany – The parliamentary inquiry committee established to investigate the terrorist attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market will hold its inaugural session today, January 23, 2023, at 12:00 PM in the state parliament building.
Non-Public Meeting: Establishing Procedural Framework
The committee’s first meeting will commence in a closed session, where members will deliberate and establish the procedural framework for the investigation. This includes determining the scope and parameters of the inquiry, as well as the schedule for witness testimony and document review.
Deadly Attack on Christmas Eve
On December 23, 2022, a man from Saudi Arabia drove an SUV into the festive crowd gathered at the Magdeburg Christmas market. The horrific attack claimed the lives of six innocent people and left nearly 300 injured.
Concurrent Investigations
In addition to the parliamentary inquiry, a parallel criminal investigation is being conducted by the local public prosecutor’s office. The dual investigative processes aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the attack and its aftermath.
Parliament’s Role in Unraveling the Truth
The parliamentary committee’s mandate extends beyond mere fact-finding. Its members have the authority to summons witnesses, request documents, and examine evidence. Their goal is to identify any potential failures or oversights that may have contributed to the attack and to recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Public Transparency and Accountability
The committee’s proceedings will be conducted with the utmost transparency. Public hearings will be open to the media and the public, ensuring that the citizens of Magdeburg and Germany as a whole have full access to the information and findings of the investigation.
Timeline and Expected Outcomes
The committee intends to complete its investigation within one year. Its findings will be presented in a comprehensive report that is expected to shed light on the causes, consequences, and lessons learned from the Magdeburg Christmas market attack.
Commitment to Justice and Prevention
The establishment of this parliamentary committee reflects the unwavering commitment of the German government and the people of Magdeburg to seeking justice for the victims and their families, and to taking all necessary steps to prevent such senseless acts of violence in the future.
