ISIS threats overshadow Cologne carnival with security on high alert
The Islamic State is calling for terrorist attacks in Europe, according to media reports from Germany. The list of targets by the Islamists includes four locations, three of which are in Germany. The attacks are expected to occur in crowded places during the carnival, including in Cologne.
According to "Welt," the street carnival begins on Thursday in Cologne and other German cities. Meanwhile, Islamic State terrorists are making threats online.
Islamists have used social networks to call for attacks, including during the Cologne carnival – said Martin Lotz, the operational commander of the Cologne police during the carnival, to DPA.
Is ISIS planning attacks? Here's the list of targets
The German newspaper "Bild" first reported the call. The website of the terrorist organization Islamic State (ISIS) features a poster with four potential targets – two in Cologne, one in Nuremberg, and one in the Dutch port city of Rotterdam.
A police spokesperson in Nuremberg said that they have no information on specific attack plans or threats, and this does not change our current plans.
"Welt" reports, citing sources in security agencies, that these calls are known and taken seriously. Such calls for violence through IS propaganda channels are nothing new. Authorities ensure they are prepared for all possible scenarios.
Germany reacts after the attacks
Let's recall that the last attack in Germany involved a 24-year-old Afghan who drove into a crowd, injuring nearly 30 people. The suspect, Farhad N., was seeking asylum in Germany. The incident occurred just before the Munich Security Conference.
Germany is implementing a strict security plan for the carnival period in response to past terrorist incidents. Martin Lotz noted that the security situation has become more tense than in previous years due to attacks by radicalized lone actors. While there are no specific indications of planned attacks, he stressed the importance of being prepared for any scenario.
The Cologne police plan to deploy up to 1,500 more officers during carnival days than on regular days. The street carnival begins on Thursday with the so-called Weiberfastnacht ("Women's Thursday," editor's note).
