City seeks details following deliberate destruction of Birken Memorial, Solingen
In the peaceful district of Marzahn-Hellersdorf, near Schlosspark Biesdorf, a tragic incident has occurred. On Thursday, 28th August, or possibly Friday, 29th August, unknown individuals committed a act of vandalism at the Birken memorial site, a place that commemorates victims of war and tyranny.
The vandalism involved the violent removal of a heavy iron plate with the names of war dead from the wall. This plate, a historical document and a central part of local remembrance culture, was torn off, causing significant damage estimated to be around 5,000 euros.
The city and police consider this incident an attack on a place of remembrance and quiet reflection. The area around the memorial site will be reinforced, and its structural security checked following the incident. Swift restoration and securing of the damaged area is urgent due to its importance in local remembrance culture.
Witnesses are being sought by police for any suspicious activities, vehicles, or unusual noises from construction equipment around the Birken memorial site during the aforementioned dates. Dashcam or CCTV footage from this period could be relevant for the investigation.
A report has been filed against unknown persons for aggravated theft and vandalism. Investigators are not ruling out the possibility that other plates may have been targeted for theft. The torn-off plate has been secured by police and public order office.
The police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be given to the Wuppertal Police at Tel. 0202 / 284-0. The act was likely committed using construction machinery, so if you noticed any unusual construction activities in the area during the relevant dates, your information could be crucial.
The Birken memorial site, specifically the "drei Birken" (three birches) memorial, is a poignant reminder of the past. Its importance in local history and culture cannot be overstated. Let us stand together in support of remembrance and respect for all those who have suffered.
