KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – German police have shot and killed a 27-year-old Afghan man in the southern city of Wangen after he allegedly attacked two officers with a knife during an attempted arrest.
One officer was seriously injured but is now in stable condition, German authorities said Thursday.
The incident unfolded when law enforcement officers arrived at the man’s residence to detain him in connection with a previous assault conviction. As the officers tried to carry out the arrest, the man reportedly drew a knife and stabbed one of them multiple times.
The officers responded with gunfire, killing the attacker on the spot despite emergency attempts to revive him.
Police officials confirmed that the injured officer received immediate medical attention and is expected to recover.
A formal investigation has been launched into the police’s use of firearms during the incident, which is standard procedure in such cases.
Authorities emphasized that the suspect’s actions left the officers with no alternative but to use lethal force.
The fatal encounter has sparked renewed discussion in Germany over public safety and immigration. In recent months, a series of violent attacks, some involving migrants, have reignited political debate and public concern.
In response, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has announced tighter immigration controls, including stricter border checks and measures to prevent the entry of undocumented migrants.
The Afghan community in Germany, which numbers in the tens of thousands, has faced increasing scrutiny amid rising anti-immigrant rhetoric.
Advocacy groups warn against generalizing the actions of individuals and urge for balanced responses that protect both public safety and migrant rights.
