Are Czechia's holiday markets safe after German attack? Officials reassure public

Czech officials have reassured the public about safety at Christmas markets across the country following a deadly attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, 300 kilometers to the northwest of Prague, on Friday. The incident, in which a driver plowed into a crowd, killed at least two people and injured more than 60 others, was condemned as a "brutal terrorist attack" by Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala.

“There is no immediate risk in the Czech Republic,” Interior Minister Vít Rakušan said. Increased security measures, already in place since the start of Advent, remain unchanged.

Since the advent period began, police patrols have been heightened in areas with large crowds, including Christmas markets, cultural events, and shopping centers. Officers equipped with long guns and ballistic protection are maintaining a visible presence.

“We are obtaining detailed information about the incident in Magdeburg from our German colleagues and are ready to react immediately if necessary. At present, there are no changes to the measures already in place,” the Czech police said in a statement.

Prime Minister Fiala expressed solidarity with Germany, writing on social media, “I strongly condemn the brutal terrorist attack at the Christmas market in Magdeburg. My thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims.”

Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský also extended his condolences, adding, “We are waiting for further reports on the investigation of this terrorist act. Our thoughts are with our German friends, the relatives of the victims, and the injured.”

Czech authorities are monitoring the situation closely. The Consulate General in Dresden is in contact with German police, who are expected to release more information about the victims on Saturday, according to Mariana Wernerová, spokesperson for the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs. It remains unclear whether any Czech citizens were affected by the attack.

The suspect is believed to be a 50-year-old Saudi Arabian doctor.

While the tragic events in Germany have raised concerns, Czech officials emphasized that security measures already in place are sufficient. "The safety of residents and visitors is our top priority, especially during the holiday season,” Rakušan said.

The incident in Magdeburg has heightened awareness but has not resulted in any immediate threats or new precautions in Czechia. Visitors to Christmas markets are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities.

Today marks the anniversary of one of Prague's most devastating public attacks—a mass shooting at Charles University's Faculty of Arts that left 14 people dead and 25 injured. In the wake of that tragedy, multiple hoax calls requiring police intervention have been reported in recent months. One such incident occurred on Thursday, coinciding with the deployment of bomb squads to investigate suspicious objects found on several streets in Prague.