Munich Experience Horrific Car-Ramming Incident Ahead of Federal Elections**

Munich witnessed a troubling car-ramming attack, injuring dozens just before crucial federal elections. The driver, an Afghan asylum seeker, has drawn attention to immigration and security issues in Germany.**

At least 30 individuals have sustained injuries, with some in critical condition, after a shocking car-ramming incident in Munich, occurring just one week before Germany's federal elections. The driver, identified as 24-year-old Afghan asylum seeker Farhad N., was promptly apprehended at the scene, according to police.

This disturbing event prompted the involvement of counter-terrorism units due to emerging evidence suggesting the driver may possess an "extremist background." The attack underscores the growing tensions surrounding immigration issues within Germany, especially following a spate of violence attributed to immigrants. Chancellor Olaf Scholz responded to the incident, stating that the suspect "must be punished and he must leave the country."

The ramming took place during a rally organized by transport workers' unions around 10:30 AM local time on Thursday. Eyewitness accounts described moments of chaos as the car barreled toward a crowd gathered near police vehicles on Dachauer Strasse, close to Munich's central train station. Police officers intervened by firing at the vehicle before detaining the suspect. Rescue helicopters were dispatched to assist the injured, with the city’s mayor, Dieter Reiter, revealing that children were among those hurt.

Locals reported feeling unsettling anxiety as people hurried into nearby stores and buildings for safety amid the frightening scene. A student who witnessed the event shared, "It is obviously very unsettling. I can't concentrate on anything else."

This car-ramming incident occurs against the backdrop of crucial federal elections on February 23. Reports indicate that the driver arrived in Germany as a minor in 2016; however, his asylum claim was rejected the following year. Although a deportation was scheduled for Autumn 2020, it did not occur due to the situation in Afghanistan. It has been confirmed that at the time of the incident, the suspect held a valid residence permit.

Bavarian Premier Markus Söder characterized this incident as a "suspected attack," urging rapid changes within Germany’s security protocols. The incident also reignites memories of a recent Christmas market tragedy where six people lost their lives. Söder commented, "Hearing about another vehicle attack is a slap in the face."

The aftermath of this attack has led police to seek additional witnesses, as there are speculative reports about possible accomplices. Just weeks prior, Bavaria had experienced a fatal stabbing incident, and authorities are under pressure to explain why certain individuals remain in the country despite being flagged for security concerns.

The events leading up to the federal elections have shifted discussions towards immigration policies, with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) gaining traction in polls. The party is advocating for "remigration," hinting at proposals for mass deportation. In light of the concerns surrounding public safety, Scholz’s administration has indicated plans to bolster deportations of serious offenders back to Afghanistan.

Additionally, the ongoing legal proceedings of an Afghan national accused of a deadly attack at an anti-Islam rally last May further amplify the urgency surrounding these issues. As Germany approaches its elections, the focus on immigration, security, and public safety has never been more pronounced.