Germans should be 'more vigilant' in fight against terrorism
June 15, 2016
In an interview with local German newspaper "Rheinische Post" on Wednesday, Thomas de Maiziere said that "between us we must prepare ourselves for individual attacks, as well as mixed attacks such as those in Paris and internationally organized attacks, and not only for one of these scenarios."
"In society we also need increased vigilance, if relatives, neighbors or friends radicalize themselves," he added.
"That has to be part of our security architecture. Sharing such evidence with the authorities is essential for thwarting terrorist attacks," de Maiziere said, adding that radicalization of potential terrorists takes places not only online, but also often begins in a person's social sphere.
Deadly knife attack in Paris
De Maiziere's comments on Wednesday came just days after a man who had repeatedly pledged allegiance to the the "Islamic State" (IS) killed a police officer and his wife, west of Paris.
In the US on Sunday, 49 people were also killed and 53 others wounded, after Omar Mateen opened fire at a gay nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Mateen allegedly claimed allegiance to IS leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, however the FBI is also reportedly investigating whether the gunman had, in fact, been a regular at the gay dance club and was leading a secret life as a gay man.
Meeting in Paris
In light of the attacks, De Maiziere met with his French counterpart Bernard Cazeneuve in Paris on Wednesday in order to discuss their cooperation in the fight against terrorism. Also on the agenda were the scenes of hooliganism which have plagued the opening days of Euro 2016.
After attending the French cabinet meeting on Wednesday morning, de Maiziere said he found it "outrageous" when so-called "fans" have nothing else in mind except to "beat, kick and abuse" other people.
"And that under the influence of alcohol too," de Maiziere added.
De Maiziere was later due to meet with police authorities who have been deployed at the ongoing football tournament.
In a brief press conference with Cazeneuve, de Maziere told reporters that he had "complete trust in [France's] security authorities and police."
"We will do everything possible to ensure that football remains the focus in this tournament, and not security," de Maiziere said.