MFA: No Georgians Reported Among Deceased during Christmas Market Attack in Berlin

TBILISI – Georgia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has said that no Georgians have yet been reported among those killed or injured during last night’s attack in Berlin. There were 12 deaths and around 50 injuries after a truck drove at speed into a popular and crowded Christmas market. Berlin police said the incident was intentional and is being investigated as a "presumed terrorist attack."

The MFA has released two hotline numbers, one for Georgia’s Embassy in Germany +49 (0) 162 88 55 303 and another for the MFA Consulate Department in Georgia (+995 32) 294 5050, which any concerned parties can call to get assistance or information.

The incident took place in Berlin late on December 19. The market, at Breitscheidplatz, is close to the Kurfuerstendamm, the main shopping street in the former West Berlin.

The BBC reports that the deadly incident unfolded in the shadow of the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, which was damaged in a World War Two bombing raid and has, in its renovated state, become one of the city’s enduring symbol of peace.

The truck, which was loaded with steel beams, veered into the market at one of its busiest hours, crashing through wooden huts and stands packed with tourists and locals.

Police have reported that a man found dead in passenger seat of the truck was a Polish citizen, but emphasized that he was not in control of the vehicle. The nationality of the suspected driver, who fled the scene and was later arrested, remains unclear.

German media cites local security sources as saying that there was evidence suggesting the arrested suspect was from Afghanistan or Pakistan, and had entered Germany in February as a refugee.

The attack was condemned in Georgia. Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili offered his condolences to the families of the deceased via social media.

The Prime Minister’s statement, on twitter, read: “Outraged by the heinous attack on Christmas market in Berlin. Our prayers are with the victims and their families,"

Georgia’s MFA also condemned the incident.

“Horrified by the attack on innocent civilians in Berlin . Extend deepest condolences 2families of victims. We stand by #Germany @GermanyDiplo," the Ministry posted.

The President of Georgia, Giorgi Margvelashvili  expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy.

"I express deep sorrow about the tragedy at a Christmas market in Berlin. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families," the President's statement reads.

By Thea Morrison