FDP leader Lindner calls for consequences after suspected Islamist attack in Solingen

The suspected Islamist attack in Solingen must have consequences for asylum policy, according to FDP federal leader Christian Lindner. "Consequences must be drawn from the terrorist act, and with great sober reason," Lindner demanded at an event for the state election in Dresden. "If there are people in Germany who are required to leave the country, then this constitutional state must enforce this with the utmost consistency so that people can rely on this public order anywhere and everywhere."

On Friday evening, three people were killed with a knife at a town festival in Solingen and eight others were injured, some of them seriously. The suspected perpetrator is a 26-year-old Syrian - he is in custody. The federal prosecutor's office is investigating him for murder and on suspicion of being a member of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist militia - which claimed responsibility for the attack.

Lindner: Suspect required to leave the country

The suspect was required to leave the country, Lindner said. When the authorities did not find him, "they no longer bothered; this results in permanent residence in Germany".

Lindner warned against general suspicion. But one thing is clear: refugees in Europe do not have the right to choose their place of residence. According to the Dublin regulations, the asylum procedure is conducted where they enter European soil. "There is no choice to go where the most attractive social benefits are available." For Dublin refugees obliged to leave the country, "there should no longer be any social benefits paid for by taxpayers", said Lindner. The state election in Saxony is on Sunday.