An Afghan man was arrested in Germany on suspicion of trying to set fire to a synagogue in Wuppertal.
A 37-year-old Afghan man was arrested in Germany on Thursday on suspicion of trying to set fire to a synagogue in Wuppertal, western Germany, just days before Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. No injuries were reported.
The European Jewish Congress said the timing of the incident was particularly disturbing as Jewish communities prepare for Yom Kippur. Members of the Jewish community managed to extinguish the flames within minutes, preventing the fire from spreading. It called for Jews to be able to practise their faith and observe the High Holidays safely. The latest incident comes as Germany continues to deal with concerns over antisemitic attacks and crimes.
Suspect allegedly made antisemitic remarks
He has a previous conviction for threatening a neighbour, DPA reported.
German prosecutors said the man allegedly made antisemitic remarks at the scene, according to the German Press Agency (DPA). Police said preliminary investigations indicated that he acted alone. Wuppertal Mayor Johannes Slawig condemned the incident as “utterly despicable” and called for solidarity with the city’s Jewish community.
The suspect fled after setting the liquid on fire but was later arrested.