BERLIN, Feb 13 (Reuters) - Munich police reported that a car struck a crowd on Thursday, causing injuries. The incident occurred as the southern German city geared up for a high-level security conference, scheduled to be attended by U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. According to Bild newspaper, 15 individuals sustained injuries.
The Munich Security Conference is set to commence on Friday, with senior officials, including Vance and Zelenskiy, preparing to arrive later on Thursday. A significant police operation was underway near the central train station. Authorities confirmed the apprehension of the driver and stated that there was no ongoing threat.
A reporter for the local BR broadcaster described the scene, stating, "One person is lying on the street and a young man has been taken away by the police. People are sitting on the ground, crying and trembling."
The incident appeared to impact participants in a demonstration associated with a strike organized by the Verdi union. The union mentioned not having any details about the event. The incident took place about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) from the security conference venue.
Security concerns have intensified in Germany ahead of next week's federal election, following a series of violent incidents.