Four political party offices in Flensburg targeted by vandalism and arson attempts

Police in Flensburg have launched an investigation after four political party offices were vandalised and targeted with arson attempts over the past three days, DR reports.

The affected offices belong to the Green Party (De Grønne), Die Linke, the Social Democratic Party (SPD), and the Danish minority party SSW. According to a police statement, the incidents included smashed windows, graffiti, and traces of Molotov cocktails.

While the improvised incendiary devices—found at the offices of De Grønne, Die Linke, and SPD—did not ignite full fires, they left soot marks and superficial damage to exterior walls. At SSW’s office, the German flag was spray-painted on the entrance.

Martin Lorenzen, secretary of the Danish minority party SSW and a Flensburg city councillor, called the attacks a “new dimension” of political intimidation.

“We’ve experienced vandalism before, but attempting to set fire to a party office—that’s coordinated and deeply concerning,” Lorenzen told DR. He emphasised the importance of solidarity among democratic parties, stating, “From left to right, we must show we stand together. We’re always open to democratic debate, but vandalism and violence cross a dangerous line.”

The four parties issued a joint statement titled “Wir lassen uns nicht einschüchtern!” (“We will not be intimidated”), condemning the attacks. Lorenzen noted a broader trend, citing similar incidents against political offices elsewhere in Germany.

Police have no suspects in custody and are appealing for witnesses. Lorenzen dismissed suggestions the attacks could be mere “youthful mischief,” linking them instead to Germany’s current political climate.