Dong Xuan Center - Men accused of attacking with machetes in Asian market
After a fight with machetes, knives, and wooden lattices at the Asian market "Dong Xuan Center" in Berlin-Lichtenberg, three men have been charged. They are accused of grievous bodily harm. The 36-year-old, the 29-year-old, and the 20-year-old are in custody, according to the prosecutor's office.
The Men are alleged to belong to one of two groups that got into a fight with each other in the evening of March 15th, after the 36-year-old allegedly hit a member of the other group unexpectedly in the face with his fist. When the alleged victim tried to run away, the ten-member group reportedly took up the pursuit.
To prevent further blows, the pursued man is said to have injured the 36-year-old with a knife, according to the prosecutor. Thereupon, the accused and other group members allegedly armed themselves with four machetes and a wooden lattice - and started a hunt. They are said to have seriously injured the man and a witness who wanted to help him.
Identity of seven alleged assailants still unknown
The three accused were arrested in March and April. They must now answer before the Tiergarten Magistrates' Court, the 20-year-old in a separate proceeding before the Juvenile Court. The identity of the seven other alleged assailants could not be determined yet.
The Vietnamese market is repeatedly the scene of violence and raids. According to the Federal Criminal Police, Berlin is a "hub and spoke" for Vietnamese people traffickers in Western Europe - with the "Dong Xuan Center" being of central importance. It consists of several large halls with a total of 350 shops, most of which are run by Vietnamese people.
The Public Prosecutor's Office is handling the case against the three men who were arrested in connection with the violent incident at the "Dong Xuan Center" Market in Berlin-Lichtenberg. The men, aged 36, 29, and 20, are accused of causing significant bodily harm during the fight. The incident involved the use of machetes, knives, and wooden lattices among the men. Despite the intense involvement of many individuals, only three could be identified and charged. The large market, known for its significant Vietnamese presence, has unfortunately become a frequent location for criminal activity, according to the Federal Criminal Police.
