German minister calls for respect after youth office attack

Brandenburg's Social Affairs Minister René Wilke has expressed deep concern following a violent attack on a youth welfare office employee in Finsterwalde. A man allegedly threatened the employee and set a fire in her office, leading to four people being hospitalized with suspected smoke inhalation. A 35-year-old suspect has been arrested. Minister Wilke stated that such aggression against public service employees, which has become increasingly common, is deeply troubling. He emphasized that these individuals often work under difficult conditions to serve the community. "When citizens are rude, insolent, verbally abusive, and threatening, which has happened more and more in recent years, it leaves marks on the caseworkers," Wilke said. He added that the use of physical violence marks a point where society must pause and reflect. The minister asserted that public service employees deserve at least respect, and never threats or violence.

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The outrageous incident in Finsterwalde should deeply concern us all. Colleagues in public service often do their best under difficult conditions to serve our common good and be there for the people on site.